Shine Fm Blog

10 Ways Back to the Family Routine

Prepare

• Before you return from the break, get yourself ready for the challenges that lie ahead. Check your email for any notices that may have been mailed. Even the smallest changes are worth preparing for, as little surprises upon your return can add up and stress you out.

Strengthen Relationships

• If you have frinds or at least know someone who will be in the same boat as you, try to stay connected during the holiday. The better of a bond that you establish, the more support you will have during the ups and downs of the holiday's and even just talking can be a stress reliever.

Maintain a Routine

• Over the break, try to keep your hours as close to what they would be during the school year. Too much of a variation could make it hard to deal with upon return from the holidays.

Plan for Recreation

• The first few days back can seem overwhelming in the sense that the mundane day to day that you have been thrust into will be your life for the next six months. It's important to schedule plenty of fun and relaxing things for yourself so as to prevent the doldrums from setting in and to give yourself something to look forward to.

Mind the Planner

• Even if you aren't the type to religiously adhere to a daily planner, it won't hurt to have an organized daily schedule during the first few weeks back. This will prevent you from becoming overwhelmed as you readjust.

Repeat the Past

• If all else fails, simply return to what worked for you before the break. For example, if you are having a hard time getting going in the morning, ask yourself what you did to get in a routine in the past.

Focus on the Day

• While you want to be mindful of planning, you don't want to get discouraged by dwelling too much on all that you have to accomplish. Sometimes it helps to simply focus on the day and the task at hand. The following day, repeat. The next thing you know, you will have established a routine.

Exercise

• By nature, an exercise program is regimented and forces you to establish a routine. Even if the rest of your affairs seem to be in disarray, make it a point to exercise at the same time every day. An organized routine is contagious, and exercise is a good starting point if you are finding it hard to get back in the flow of things.

Eat Healthy

• The benefits of good nutrition are plentiful, but for the person struggling to get back into a routine, more energy and mental clarity will go a long way. Plus, it is like exercise in the sense that it becomes a habit, which is good for promoting a routine.

Be Consistent

• Try not to have obligations that drastically alter your schedule on a day-to-day basis. It's essential that you don't bite off more than you can chew, and you should schedule your business and pleasure realistically. For example, if you have Seasonal Affective Disorder, schedule a refreshing afternoon at the park instead of, say, going away for the weekend on an expensive trip.

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