Make your routines work for you.

We're a few weeks into the semester now, and I've been noticing something—both in my own life and in conversations with friends. Those routines we so carefully crafted at the beginning of the year? Some of them are starting to feel... off.

Maybe that 7 AM gym session seemed brilliant in August, but now you're hitting snooze and feeling guilty about it. Or perhaps your evening study routine has somehow morphed into mindless scrolling (been there!). As the semester gets underway and routines become more established, it can be easy to let the bad habits creep in and stay in.

But here's what I've learned: the best routines aren't the ones you stick to no matter what—they're the ones that evolve with you.

Your Routine Should Serve You, Not the Other Way Around

I used to think that changing my routine meant I was being inconsistent or weak. But actually, the most successful people I know are constantly making small tweaks to their daily habits. They treat their routines like a favorite recipe—something worth perfecting over time.

Don't be afraid to reevaluate your routines and change them week by week to meet your goals. Your energy levels change, your schedule shifts, your priorities evolve. Why shouldn't your routines change too?

When to Hit the Reset Button

• You'll know it's time to switch things up when:

  • You're consistently dreading or skipping parts of your routine

  • You're going through the motions but not seeing results

  • Your goals have shifted, but your habits are stuck in the past

  • You find yourself making the same excuses over and over

  The good news? Small adjustments often make the biggest difference. Sometimes it's as simple as moving your coffee ritual to a different time or swapping your morning walk for an evening one.

This Week’s Challenge:

Try the 3-2-1 Reset: Pick 3 parts of your current routine that aren't working. For each one, think of 2 alternatives you could try. Then choose 1 to experiment with this week.

Maybe you move that early morning workout to lunch break, or switch your Sunday meal prep to Wednesday evening. Give yourself permission to experiment—your routine should make your life easier, not harder.

I'd love to hear what routine shifts have made a difference in your life. What small change ended up being a game-changer for you?

Here's to routines that actually work for the life you're living right now, and until next week—praying for your success,

James

What routine tweaks have made the biggest difference in your life? Comment and share your wins—I love hearing what's working for our community!