Routines Lead To Dreams

Last time we spoke on here, I talked about the importance of filling your time with worthwhile things. Using this pandemic shutdown as a catalyst to catch up on the many things we've fallen behind on (family, housework, art, self-care) is good for not only our sense of productivity, but our personal health. Now we've gotten the news that some establishments are shutting down again, as the cases spike. It seems we may even be reverting back to a "yellow phase" of sorts. It's deflating, and it can throw us off of our game-plan. But routines lead to dreams.

What do I mean when I say "routines lead to dreams"? I mean the things we do every day, the ins and the outs of the grunt work, prepare us to have the lives we've always wanted. It's the work we do today that gets us ready for tomorrow. It would be so easy to feel defeated right now and just lay on the couch in a pit of self-pity. And from time to time, that's okay. We need days like that to recharge. But we also need to refocus. Life is all about finding the blessings inside the stressing.

So go for a walk, even if it's around the block or at the park down the street. Be out in the fresh air and get your blood flowing. That has a way of providing a sense of clarity and peace. Lay on your bed and think. But not about the things you did wrong in third grade, or about what you're ordering for takeout tonight. Think about the people in your life that love you, and the things that you've done that you should be proud of. Having alone time in the stillness really gives our bodies rest and resets our minds. 

Avoid your phone. I say this one out of experience. Not only is the constant need to scroll and fill notifications harmful to your posture, but it's stressful and gives in to the comparison sin. It's a time-waster that does nothing but begat jealousy and gossip. If you feel a need for companionship, make a phone call or do a Skype/Zoom chat to see a loved one. Don't allow this social setback to revert you back to harmful habits. Do the things that make you feel fulfilled and joyous. 

Getting into a daily routine will give you added reasons to get up in the morning. You'll be passing the time while feeling better, both physically and mentally. Make friends with your art again and reconnect with those that you've missed lately. Set aside time to cook and read and plant and explore. Get a calendar or a planner and start filling it in. The world will heal, just like you're healing every day. If you continue to set daily goals, it lays the foundation for a productive re-entry into society. You will come out of this better and more well-rounded, if you allow yourself to. Routines lead to dreams.