I was listening to Seth Godin in a podcast talk about routines and habits and it really was an aha moment in a sense for me.
If you’re a business owner, like me, you’ve probably often felt, there aren’t enough hours in the day to get everything done. How am I going to make it all work? How am I going to get this all completed?
Sometimes it overwhelms me and gives me what I’ll call decision paralysis.
And, keep in mind that even though I know how to tackle it, sometimes I still struggle in getting started.
So, when I heard Seth talking on this podcast, it really got me thinking. How could routines help me become more productive?
It’s actually quite simple when you start to break it down.
Setting Your Routines
If I wake up every morning at 6 am, brush my teeth, get dressed, and go downstairs to do 15 minutes of Pilates, I’ll be done by 6:30 am. This gives me enough time to make sure my oldest has eaten and get him off to the bus. Then, I make coffee, unload the dishwasher, prep snacks for the other 3 kids for the day, get their breakfast together, help them get dressed, and get them off to the bus. At 8 am, Nic and I head out for an hour walk where we set our goals for the day. We’re back at 9 am and time for work.
I can do these things without really thinking. They become habits, they happen every day, I don’t need to decide on doing them, because I already did. Nothing changes.
Once you have that habit, it’s hard to break, it’s like you become a ball rolling down hill faster and faster, and it gets harder and harder to stop your productivity!
Having set routines makes it easier to make the decisions I need to make AFTER 9 am. I can’t implement the exact same daily schedule starting at 9 am because of different meetings, kids, etc.
But what I discovered is that I can set a “Time to Work” routine.
I can review the to-do list I created at the end of the previous day. I personally like to start with the “easier” items so I can get them checked off my list and out the door. Once I’ve done that I can check my email and see if any “emergencies” come in. Then I can take care of those. Then it’s time to tackle at least one of the larger jobs on my list.
After that, it’s time to evaluate my list, cross off everything that’s been done, add to it, and close the computer for the day.
Does every day look the same? No. But if I have a process, if I get into a routine of how I’m going to tackle and take care of everything, and if I check my email less (this is key!) I have less of a chance of getting overwhelmed.
Now, I need to set a better evening routine. That way I can ensure I get to bed at the same time each night in order to be ready to go at 6am.
Do you have a routine that works for you? I’d love any tips you have! Share them below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are routines important for business owners?
Routines help reduce decision fatigue and provide structure, especially for business owners juggling multiple responsibilities. They create a predictable framework that boosts productivity and reduces overwhelm.
How can a morning routine improve my productivity?
A morning routine sets the tone for the day. For example, waking at a consistent time, doing light exercise, and completing household tasks early can lead to a clear mind and a focused start to your workday.
How do routines help with work-life balance?
Routines create predictability, which allows you to manage both personal and professional tasks more effectively. They give structure to your day so you’re not constantly reacting to what’s next.
What’s one routine most people overlook?
Evening routines. A consistent evening routine helps you wind down, reduce stress, and ensures you’re well-rested, setting the stage for a productive next day.
Do routines have to be the same every day?
Not necessarily. While the core structure of your routines can stay the same, flexibility is key. For instance, your early morning might be routine-driven, while your afternoon adjusts based on meetings or family needs.
