The Power of Routines

Routines are a powerful thing. We know they work for our kids (think bedtime routines), so why not use them more often for yourself?

I am working on creating a weekly cleaning routine. The idea is to do a little cleaning and laundry every day, so it does not pile up and overwhelm me on the weekends. 

Example:  

Monday - clean toilets/sinks, wash linens

Tuesday - dust, wash lights

Wednesday - vacuum, wash darks

Thursday - mop, wash kids

Friday - catch all 

Saturday - mirrors/windows, wash work clothes

They say it takes 21 days to create a habit, so now I need to build a routine to make sure I stay on track. 

1.  Daily to do list - I review my daily to do list every night and morning, to make sure key tasks are captured and I have a plan to address the most important tasks.  Remember, do first things first. 

Note - I use the Evernote app on my Smartphone for most of my list making. It means I can check my list anywhere. At work I use Microsoft Onenote.

2.  Schedule - blocking time for key activities helps prioritize what you should be working on. After my son goes to bed is my housework time. I wash dishes and do the daily cleaning. 

I have also heard using a timer helps focus your cleaning efforts for a specific 15 minute block. 

3.  Reminders - I put my daily clean/laundry schedule on my command center (currently a whiteboard on my fridge) so I would see it every day as a reminder. 

4.  Accountability - having a partner that helps hold you accountable is important whenever you are making a change. Get your spouse or children involved in the schedule. I also found an app called "Lift" that allows you to track how often you achieve your daily habits and see your frequency and progress.  

The hardest part of a new habit is finding time and sticking to it. With the motivation of a cleaner and more comfortable house, I am determined to make this habit stick. 

When in Rome...take time to wander

My parents just got back from Italy and one thing they were impressed with is how common it was for people to spend the evening out strolling and visiting. Italians of all ages and families could be seen in the plazas enjoying the evening air. 

In Portuguese, I have heard it called " passear, " but I am not sure what the equivalent would be in English. Maybe to "cruise."

Their experience reminded me of the importance of slowing down, getting outside and networking with your neighbors and friends.  All of these things are goals for me, especially with an active toddler. 

Of course, in European cities, this may be a little easier, since they have plazas everywhere.  But even in American suburbia, there are usually parks or common areas in a community within walking distance.  Ideally, you feel safe walking around your neighborhood before the sun sets. If not, I suggest finding a park or local community event in the area. 

Now that summer is fast approaching and there is light later in the evening, I am challenging myself to spend more time, cruising the neighborhood with my family.   Hopefully we will meet more neighbors, get some exercise and spend some quality time outside, before bedtime. 

Now it's time to passear.