The Power of Routine: 5 Simple Steps to Achieve Your Wellness Goals

Hi ladies,

Welcome back to She Chose Wellness and Happy New Year! As we step into this fresh chapter, it's the perfect time to reflect, refocus, and renew our commitment to health and well-being. This year, let’s prioritize wellness by embracing the power of routines. We all have unique wellness goals. Some of you may want to improve your energy, manage stress, or achieve long-term health goals. No matter what your wellness goals are this year, creating a supportive routine can make all the difference.

Over the years as a healthcare provider and wellness advocate, I’ve worked with countless women from all walks of life who’ve transformed their health by creating daily habits that align with their goals. Here, I’ll share why routines are so powerful and provide five practical tips you can start using today to create a routine that supports your journey toward optimal wellness.

Why Routines Matter

Routines provide structure, reduce decision fatigue, and help us prioritize what truly matters. They also create consistency, which is essential for sustainable progress. Research has shown that developing and maintaining habits significantly contributes to improved health outcomes. For example, Arlinghaus and Johnston (2019) highlighted that creating routines not only promotes consistency but also enhances self-regulation, which is crucial for achieving long-term health goals. Furthermore, these routines reduce the mental burden of decision-making, freeing up energy to focus on other areas of life.

If you're a woman over thirty juggling a family, a career, and fluctuating hormones, I understand how overwhelming that feels. Decision fatigue is real, and it can drain your energy before you even get started on your day. That's why creating a supportive routine is a game-changer—it simplifies your daily choices, conserves your energy, and allows you to focus on what truly matters: your well-being and achieving your wellness goals.

Five Practical Tips for Building Your Wellness Routine

1. Start Your Day with Intention

   
   

   Begin each morning with a simple ritual that aligns with your wellness goals. This could be 5 minutes of deep breathing, a gratitude journal, or a quick stretch. Starting your day with intention sets a positive tone and reminds you to prioritize yourself.

   
   

2. Schedule Movement You Enjoy

   
   

   Exercise doesn’t have to be a chore. Whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga, or dancing in your living room, find an activity you love and make it a non-negotiable part of your day. Bonus: add it to your calendar like any other appointment to ensure it happens.

   
   

3. Fuel Your Body with Purpose

   
   

   Plan and prep your meals to include whole, nutrient-dense foods. Having a rough meal plan for the week prevents last-minute unhealthy choices. For example, batch cooking a few staples like roasted veggies, quinoa, or lean protein can save time and reduce stress.

   
   

4. Set Boundaries Around Screen Time

   
   

   In our hyper-connected world, it’s easy to lose hours scrolling on social media. Set a time limit for screens, especially before bed, to improve sleep quality and reduce stress. Use apps or your phone’s built-in tools to track and limit usage.

   
   

5. End Your Day with Reflection

   
   

   Close your day with a calming ritual, like journaling about what went well or preparing for the next day. This practice not only helps you process the day but also reinforces positive habits and keeps you aligned with your goals.

   
   

Building a Routine That Sticks

Start small. Pick one or two of the tips above and focus on them for a week or two before adding more. Consistency is more important than perfection, and small changes can lead to significant transformations over time.

Let’s Do This Together

Remember, routines are not one-size-fits-all. They should reflect your unique goals and lifestyle. At She Chose Wellness, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you’re looking for personalized strategies or a supportive community, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone.

What’s one small habit you’ll commit to this week? Share in the comments below—let’s inspire each other to stay consistent and reach our goals!

As women, we have the power to choose wellness—and it starts with the simple routines we build today. Let’s make it happen! Make wellness your best accessory!

Your sister in wellness,

Lauren

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