I hear many times that routines sound boring, monotonous, unexciting, and tiring – how so? Small, but effective routines can actually catapult you to more success. Routines can be disciples that can provide more freedom.
I remember training for a marathon following a clearly defined plan made not only the marathon training easier but also the rest of my life. I was more focused in general, the apartment was more organized, and I knew exactly what to do any given day. Bike 2 loops followed by a 5–mile run – when I was done, I knew how to hydrate and refuel. This makes total sense. How is it so difficult to adapt that mentality to our everyday life? Why is it so easy to get sidetracked with all the social media and chatter around us?
How can I implement more healthy routines? Again, reading about it can be a good first step. But then, we also have to take that first step. Let’s do it together. Get an accountability partner and simply do it! #onestepatatime #onedayatatime
1. Mindful practice: daily practice for 20minutes or more can be the key to success. The Dalai Lama says: “if you have a busy day ahead, meditate more.” I like to apply that to my busy days but it’s not always possible. When I can make those 20 minutes, I feel much better and focused, this is a reality. However, if I must start to work at 6am, then this lovely routine is out of the window for me.
2. Physical activity: that for me is non-negotiable. “You do not want to be around me, when I cannot run.” The running for me is when I recharge my batteries by myself, alone. Swimming is actually even better as I don’t have to talk to anybody! I can dive in and enjoy the very quiet moment just listening to my breathing.
3. Sleep: another non-negotiable for me. I was never able to do an all-nighter either to study or finish a project. I need my sleep otherwise I cannot function. Anything before 5:30 am is not working for me. The best sleep time for me is 10pm-6am. For three years, I was working full time and went part time to college and this sleep pattern was working for me. Any deviation was detrimental to my health and mood.
4. High nutrient diet: another non-negotiable. I have been a vegetarian for a long, long time. I do not miss eating meat, occasionally I eat fish (love sushi!) As an athlete, I enjoy healthy, fresh food. Yes, from time to time I enjoy some French fries, but my stomach will always tell me: “hey the first few French fries are good, but don’t overdo.” Everything in moderation is always the best.
5. Relaxing activities: it seems the busier we are the more important it is to add FUN into our lives. For me a relaxing activity is going to a museum or just people watching, enjoying the moment doing nothing.
What are some activities that are non-negotiable for you? Let’s have a healthy but simple routine for the coming summer months ahead of us.
Photo: running when traveling to a new place (Washington, DC) and enjoying some art
Podcast guest on “Take it from the Ironwoman:” Sam Payne, CEO and founder of The Pink Elephants Support Network, Sydney, Australia –An organization for those impacted by early pregnancy loss or miscarriages.
For more information:
TEDx Talk, May 12, 2022: Running and Life: 5K Formula for your Success | Susanne Mueller
Disclaimer: All blogs, podcasts, videos that I have ever published have been written/produced from scratch by Susanne Mueller!
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