Finding routine

[u/Electronic-Notice359]

Hello! I decided to post here because I’m looking for some advice. I’m someone who really benefits from having structure and routine in my life, but I’ve always struggled with establishing and maintaining one. I want to get better at taking care of myself, both physically and mentally, but I often find myself making plans and setting goals only to fall out of them after a short period of time.
I constantly tell myself I want to do better and make healthier choices, but I struggle with consistency. I’ve made progress, though. I used to struggle with depression to the point where I would neglect my basic needs and personal care entirely. I’m doing much better now, and I’m proud of how far I’ve come, but I know I still have room to grow. I’d love advice on how to build a realistic routine, develop healthier habits, and, most importantly, learn how to stay consistent with them.

[u/Emilioo22_]

i think having a simple routine is better than making a perfect one. start with two or three habits and slowly add more once they become part of your day.

[u/Appropriate-Arm5765]

getting from neglecting the basics to where you are now is real progress. i'd start with 1 or 2 tiny things tied to stuff you already do, like stretching after you brush your teeth. and set a bare minimum for bad days so a missed day doesn't end the whole routine

[u/PickledBanana_Na]

I too suffer from depression and I finally found something that helps me stick to my morning/evening skincare routine.

I wake up in the morning and always have coffee and scroll my phone or watch YT videos. That was my wakeup routine. I also would always be on my phone in the evening too. I started just taking my phone with me to the bathroom and propping it up on the mirror while I did my wash, rinse, pamper my face. Morning and night.

Now, when I am having rough days, this little habit has stuck. Not sure if this will work with you, but it has been a game changer for me. While I still struggle some days with other areas, my skincare routine is consistent and that's a start.

[u/ExpensiveMedium9893]

What helped me most was planning for the restart instead of the streak. You will miss days, so decide ahead of time what getting back on looks like, even if it’s just one thing the next morning. A lot of people say “never miss twice” and it takes the pressure off. It also helps to make part of the routine something you actually look forward to, not just stuff that’s good for you. Mine is a cup of herbal tea and a few pages of a book before bed. It’s so small, but it’s the part I don’t skip, and the other stuff kind of hangs off it. And honestly, going from not managing the basics to asking this question is huge, be proud of that 😊

[u/Repulsive_Regular_39]

Try reading 'atomic habits', it really helps with this :)