Not a Routine Person? You Might Be a Ritual Person

Have you ever struggled to build a habit only to have people say “once you get into a routine it will be easy!”? And you’re like, yeah I know, it’s the routine part that is the problem. All over the wellness industry, we are told that routines are the best way to do things. And let’s not forget all the things we are supposed to include in our routines. Walks, supplements, 3 types of exercise, 4 types of journaling and cleaning the whole house before work! I have yet to meet anyone who successfully manages one such recommended routine; and if I did I would ask “when do you have time to, you know, live?”. If you want to build habits but aren’t having success with routines, there may be an alternative for you. I call it a ritual. It’s sort of the same, but different. A routine is a list of tasks you complete every day, while a ritual is a practice you undertake periodically to enrich your life. There are no restrictions or rules with rituals, and they are designed to make your life right now better, not just in the future. Here are ten reasons why I think rituals are better than routines.

1. It’s all about the intention (not the expectation). A routine is something you feel you should do.  I should go to the gym because I said that I would. A ritual is something you want to do. I want to give my body a challenge and keep it healthy. I could go to the gym or go for a run or even just do some gardening.

2. It’s an experience (not a string of tasks). A routine is something you follow in order to achieve a set of requirements. For example; brushing your teeth, getting dressed and eating breakfast. A ritual provides an experience, the experience of getting your body and mind lovingly ready to face the day.

3. It feels like a privilege (not a chore). A routine is something you have to do. I have to walk the dog this morning. A ritual is something you get to do. I get to spend time with my dog who I love so much.

4. Its purpose is enrichment (not to tick off a to-do list). A routine is done so you can say you’ve done it. Okay, I did all five tasks, and now I can move on. A ritual is done to improve your life. Okay, I took care of my body and mind, I’m ready for the day now.

5. It is done with mindfulness (not on autopilot). A routine is the same every day. A ritual is new every single time. 

6. Their purpose is the practice (not the end result). A routine is about getting things done. I want to lose weight, be more organised, and be a better person. A ritual is about bringing positive practices into your life. I want to give my body nourishment, I want to clear out my mental clutter, and I want to appreciate myself and my uniqueness.

7. They are flexible and grow with you (not rigid and repetitive). A routine is always the same. If I do not do it exactly as I expect I have failed. A ritual is made for you by you. I no longer need this part of my ritual, I am bringing in something new.