Routine: Tips for Young People

Having a routine can help create a sense of security and purpose. Creating a simple morning routine, for example, waking up, showering, brushing teeth and getting dressed can help set us up with a positive mindset. It can help structure our day, which can motivate us to be more in control of our lives.

Sticking to a daily routine can help reduce stress, low mood and anxiety as it can enable positive wellbeing. Routines can also help us through difficult times or times of change, as being consistent with a routine can be familiar, making us feel safe and more present.

Here are some tips on creating a routine:

School / college days

• Try to ensure you get up at the same time each day you have school or college. Over time, this will make it easier to get out of bed and help you to feel more motivated.
• Allow yourself time before you leave for school/ college to eat breakfast and have a drink. Rushing around can add to feeling stressed, which can have a negative impact on the rest of the day.
• Having a simple plan of action or timetable for school or college deadlines or upcoming exams can be beneficial. This visual aid can also help us feel less overwhelmed.
• Having an after school or college routine can be helpful to. For example, having a snack when home, a short break to relax, then scheduling in some homework or studying after. Remember to have regular short breaks.

Free days

• Days where we have not got much going on can make it difficult to maintain a routine. Therefore setting ourselves one or two goals throughout the day can be useful, such as, making that appointment you keep putting off or de-cluttering our bedroom.
• As much as we would like to stay in bed late, setting ourselves a time limit of when we want to be out of bed will help a routine to become easier in the long run.
• Free days can often mean boredom kicks in. Why not create a list of things to do on those quieter days. This could be, cooking a meal, reading articles on a new subject, going for a walk, trying an online yoga class, dancing or calling a friend.

Bedtime routine

• Having a bedtime routine is key for a good quality, restful night’s sleep
• Around an hour or so before bed, try to limit screen time. The light from our phones, tablets and computers can stimulate us, making sleep more difficult.
• Try doing a quiet, relaxing activity before bed, such as, taking a warm bath, reading, meditating or listen to relaxing music
• Try to aim to get into bed at roughly the same time each night. This routine helps us to associate that time with sleep.

Finally

• It is important to remember that it is okay if you don’t stick rigidly to a routine all the time
• Being flexible and adapting your routine can also be helpful in managing your daily life
• Remember that small, manageable tasks will be more achievable. This will aid a sense of satisfaction and make you more likely to stick to a routine.

Find out about our services for young people.