As we start the new year, many of us are eager to make positive changes and set the tone for a healthier lifestyle.

One effective, but often overlooked, way to do this is by establishing a routine that prioritizes our mental well-being. In this article, we'll explore simple—yet impactful—steps you can take to create a consistent daily routine in January, setting the stage for a healthier and happier year. Let's dive into the practical ways you can enhance your mental health through intentional habits and a focused routine.

By offering several benefits that make our daily lives smoother and more manageable, routines:

Routines go beyond just time management, they play a significant role in supporting overall well-being, building resilience, and fostering a healthier and fulfilling life (Arlinghaus & Johnston, 2019).

This article provides ideas for establishing a routine that nurtures emotional well-being. It's crucial to keep in mind that we all have unique characteristics and varying needs. Understanding yourself is the first step—acknowledging your traits and preferences. For instance, if you're a night owl or consider yourself more introverted, it's essential to tailor your routine accordingly, factoring in these specific traits.

Components of a routine for good mental health:

This may look like a big list of things to do! It’s not meant to overwhelm you. Remember, you don’t have to do it all. You may also find that multiple items can be combined. For example, I phone friends and family while taking my daily walk.

If you’re going add new things to your schedule, you may need to subtract others. This might come in the form of setting boundaries and saying no to things that aren’t priorities or don’t support your well-being. It can also mean spending less time on mindless activities that don’t solve a problem or leave you feeling replenished.

Also, remember that following a routine will ultimately save you time. You’ll be more efficient. You’ll have more energy.

Most important, know that creating a routine to support your mental health is a work in progress. You don’t have to add all of these things to your routine this week. Start where you are and add one healthy habit at a time. If you don’t keep to the routine perfectly, that’s normal and to be expected. Self-compassion is also good for your mental health!

This post was adapted from an article on the author’s website.

References

Arlinghaus, K. R., & Johnston, C. A. (2019). The Importance of Creating Habits and Routine. American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, 13(2), 142-144. https://doi.org/10.1177/1559827618818044

Peri, C. (2021). What Lack of Sleep Does to Your Mind. Web MD. https://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/features/emotions-cognitive#1