Before I decided to close Crafting my Life, I was running a monthly series on the site that was all about creating positive routines. I was enjoying it quite a lot, so I decided to move it over here and re-jig it a little. Each month I’m setting one goal towards creating a more purpose-filled life. If you’d like to join in and take some steps to create better rhythms and routines in your own life, I’d love to hear how you’re doing it.
Last Month’s Recap
In February, I committed to stop texting and walking. In the first place, I don’t relish the idea of walking into a mall fountain. In the second place, I was hoping to cultivate more presence and mindfulness. I would say that I succeeded. As the month wore on, I found myself reaching for my phone less and less while I was on foot. My Instagram postings decreased, which provides independent verification that I succeeded. I spent more time talking to my kids on the way to and from school, and less time saying, “Just a second,” while I tapped out a tweet.
Creating a Routine for March
For March, I’m focusing on my marriage. It’s not in trouble – on the contrary, I think things are generally pretty good between Jon and me. However, relationships take work, even good ones. I’ve been asking myself what I can do to make mine better. I’ve decided that the answer is to cultivate appreciation. I don’t just mean telling my partner I appreciate him. I mean reinforcing in my own mind what I appreciate about this man I married.
To that end, I’ve created an Excel spreadsheet, because I do adore Excel, with a deep and abiding passion. Every day, I open that spreadsheet and list five things I love and appreciate about my husband. It takes only a minute or two every day, and when I’m done I feel all warm and fuzzy and happy. I’m not sharing the spreadsheet with my husband, although I am using it as fodder for telling him what I appreciate about him. Really, though, it’s for me. In fact, if he’s reading this post, he’s only just learning about its existence now. Sometimes love, and blogging, is weird like that.
Start With Small Changes
One thing I’ve learned on my journey towards a more purpose-driven life is that change happens best in small, bite-sized pieces. That’s why I’m once again choosing something small as my change in routine this month. I invite you to do the same thing. Is there something small you could do to improve your daily rhythm or overall mood? If so, what’s holding you back? Create a new routine, and leave a comment so that we can cheer each other on!