I’m finding that maintaining a stable and purposeful life tends to be best accomplished when habits have been formed.
Habits that, over time, bring me closer to God, prepare my mind for daily engagement, and keep my body in good shape.
In some circles, this is called a “rule of life”. The practice of these habits rule out the direction one takes. Making the next step somewhat predictable helps when the scenery changes around us. That’s the way I’m feeling right now.
I regularly arise in the middle of the night to journal, pray and read the Bible. As well, I may read magazines and books. Then in the early morning I ride an exercise bike for five miles while stretching. Some of that stretching is reaching to the sky and asking God to speak to me. I write out my weekly meal schedule and attempt to stick to it. I aim for evening rest to begin by around 11:00 pm. At work I hold weekly staff meetings and try to touch base with certain people throughout the week (lately I have one older lady who also contacts me weekly if I haven’t contacted her!!).
These are a few of my rules of life that keep me sane. I find that out of these habits tends to arise a freedom to be creative. What are the things in your life that give you a sense of order and sanity?
I learded very early in life about having a daily routine in different areas. Some that I followed rigidly for many years I am questioning re their real value timewise, and eternally. It did teach me schedules, whether I liked them or not though. I am constantly surprised though by others who seem to live spontaniously; dropping everything to do something else suddenly, and seemingly without consequenses. Just living life is a lesson in itself ! I like to plan ahead always. I like to be prepared but wish I could handle change of plans more easily ! Oh well, we are what we are, I guess ! Always room for improvement and that is for sure !
I am a spontaneous person almost always. Rigid schedules drive me crazy and make me feel trapped. So I married a minister and our schedule is always planned in advance and every weekend is the same with the same commitments to church. haha I am getting used to it. Schedules stress me out so it has been a great learning experience. I admire disciplined people with well thought out schedules.
I have always over planned in my mind, then scheduled only the absolute must “do”s on the calendar (or now my phone) and then left myself open for the surprises in life. It keeps me from stressing out over the little things, gives me the latitude to enjoy new experiences and it helps me get to those dental appointments on time! (: