How to Reset a Broken Routine in Just 3 Steps

As humans, we love routines and habits. They allow us to go on autopilot, making us more efficient and effective in everything that we do.

However, it can be challenging to begin a new routine, especially when that routine is calling for a drastic change in your life.

Even when you get a routine going, there is a high risk you’ll fall off the wagon, especially within the first few weeks.

Take me for example. A while back, I began a new morning routine to help boost productivity and to start my day off right. I was very committed for the first couple weeks, waking up an hour earlier and not missing a single day. However, one particular morning after a long day of travel I got completely off track and slept in.

One day turned into one week, and before you knew it, I had completely relapsed, regressing back into my old ways.

Ever find yourself giving up on a broken routine (a diet plan, exercise regimen, etc.) after only a few short weeks?

Fortunately, I have an answer for you to make sure that when you fall down, you don’t stay down. It only takes 3 steps!

1. Remember your “why.” The broken routine you set for yourself is simply a habit, and are most powerful when you actually want to implement them. In order to do that, you must have a purpose. So when you begin to reset, go back to your “why.” As Les Brown says, “when your “why” is big enough, you will find your how.”

2. Visualize your routines. I always recommend visualization whenever you have a certain goal in mind. The very act of spending time focusing and mentally rehearsing your routine will keep you more committed to it. In fact, I think so highly of visualization to establish a routine that I created a 30-Day challenge to help you get started.

3. Find accountability partners and groups. Seek out those who are establishing the same routines that you are. These could be a coaches or mentors, friends, or even Facebook groups. Finding a blog related to your routine is also an option. Anywhere you can find others doing what you are doing, you should hang out there as well. Because these individuals or groups are in the trenches or have been there, they will be able to offer valuable insights and tips to help keep you on track. Furthermore, let’s face it: misery loves company. Sometimes you simply need to vent to someone who is in the trenches along with you who understands your struggles in order to reinvigorate your passion for success.

A routine can be very daunting to implement and notoriously easy to break. When sheer willpower isn’t enough, simply lean on these 3 strategies to get right back into the swing of things.