Did you lose steam? That’s okay.

It’s a common to want a little bit of normalcy. Maybe you’ve kept your routine all year. Maybe it’s gotten away from you. Establishing a routine is a crucial aspect of being productive and achieving success in any field, especially as a small business owner. By having a set routine, you can manage your time efficiently, prioritize tasks, and ensure that you are making progress towards your goals. Let's talk about some simple steps you can take in order to get back on track.

Set priorities

As a small business owner, you will have a long list of tasks to accomplish. It's paramount to set priorities so that you are working on the most important tasks first. This will help you stay on track and ensure that you are not wasting time on less important things. One priority should be scheduling breaks. Short breaks can actually increase productivity and prevent burnout. Use this time to stretch, go for a walk, or take a few deep breaths. It's also essential to take breaks from technology, as constant use can negatively impact your mental health and productivity. In that list, don’t forget to celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small! Celebrating your successes can boost motivation and keep you focused on achieving your goals.

Coordinate designated times

Once you have the priorities decided, set aside specific times in the day for tasks that need to get done. Knowing things like the emails, phone calls, meetings, and yes if you didn't think of it before, eating will be addressed can help prevent distractions throughout the day.

You will also feel less guilty about the self-care time you prioritize. I don't think I can stress this enough. It can be easy to get caught up in work and neglect your own well-being. Incorporating activities like exercise, meditation, or hobbies into your routine can help reduce stress and increase productivity in the long run. 

Stick to your routine

Once you have established a routine, it's important to stick with it. Consistency is key when it comes to establishing a routine. It may take some time to get used to your new routine, but once you do, you will find that you are more productive and efficient. Remember that it's okay to make *some* adjustments to your routine as needed, but try to avoid making changes too often. On the other end, it's easier to be flexible with your routine. Life can be unpredictable, so it's okay to modify your routine to accommodate unexpected events or changes in your schedule. However, it's helpful to not let these modifications become excuses to completely abandon your routine. Rather, try to adjust your routine as needed while still remaining committed to it.

Arrange a reminder to re-evaluate

Finally, it's crucial to regularly review and adjust your routine as needed. If you find yourself making accommodations more often than not, the time could be now. If not, check back in next quarter because as your business grows and changes, your routine may need to adapt to entertain new tasks and responsibilities. By regularly evaluating and adjusting your routine, you can ensure that you are making the most of your time.

Remember, establishing a routine takes time and effort, but the benefits are well worth it. By creating structure in your day-to-day life, you’ll likely find that you feel less stressed and more fulfilled. So take some time to assess your current routine and make any necessary adjustments – your small business (and your mental health) will thank you!