Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.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
For January, my goal was to sweep the kitchen every day. While I didn’t remember to sweep every single day, I’d say that I managed six days every week. And, as the month went on, I remembered to do it more and more often. I like sweeping, and I like having a clean kitchen floor, so it really was a positive change, and it only takes a few minutes at a time.
Clik here to view.

Creating a Routine for February
For February, I’ve decided to return to my word for 2013, which is presence. As in, being more present in my life. This month, I am going to stop using my phone while I’m walking. This isn’t so much about talking on my phone, which I don’t do all that often, anyway. It’s more about sending texts, replying to tweets, or updating Instagram, as I make the twice-daily trek to drop my daughter off at school and pick her up again. I’m somewhat embarrassed to admit that I’m often typing into my phone as I walk along, which is both irritating and dangerous. I don’t want to be like that woman who fell into a mall fountain because she was too busy texting.
When I’m out walking I often see things that I want to snap photos of. Maybe my kids are doing something particularly cute, maybe I see a pretty flower, or maybe one of my neighbour’s lawns has been decorated in honour of a 50th birthday. I will still stop and take a photo, but then I will put my phone back in my pocket before doing anything with it. I won’t use my phone while my feet are moving. In the process, I’m hoping to spend more time actually noticing my world, and being present in it, instead of being glued to a screen.
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!