Finding Stability In The Small Things

At some point in our lives, most of us start to crave routines. Not because we’re trying to reinvent ourselves or suddenly become hyper-productive, but simply because life begins to feel a little bit easier when a few parts are predictable. 

There’s a sort of comfort that comes with doing the same little things each day. Making your bed, washing your face to signify the start of the day, or having a quiet moment before the day actually starts. Even if the rest of your schedule is messy and chaotic, those small actions can give you a sense of stability.

Social media often romanticizes routines into something dramatic, aesthetic, and almost performative. It’s almost as if you need a colour-coded planner and a wake up time of 5 a.m. in order to qualify. But in reality, the majority of people’s routines are composed of small, simple behaviours. You eventually start noticing that certain things help your day go smoother, and they slowly turn into rituals that feel like second nature. 

For some it’s a morning walk, for others it may be a 10 minute journaling session. Sometimes, it may entail having the same “get it together” playlist going as you get ready. The point is, it’s different for everyone and it’s usually nothing special, just small things that keep you balanced. 

Another thing is, routines aren’t always identical. Some days you’re on top of things and doing everything right. Other days, the routine is “wake up, breathe and proceed.” That’s okay too. Life fluctuates and so does your energy, your routines may begin to reflect that too. It doesn’t show inconsistency, it’s just real life. 

The older I get, the more I realize routines are not always about discipline or aesthetic, they’re simply about support. They’re the things that make life feel slightly less chaotic. Even if they’re not some impressive 20-step routine, they make a difference nonetheless. 

That’s probably why many of us hold on to them. Not because we’re trying to change our lives instantly, but because they provide a little bit more calm in the midst of chaos. It’s like a small reminder that you have control over something, even when everything feels unpredictable. 

That’s really all a routine is: a small collection of habits that give you a sense of structure. Nothing dramatic or perfect, just stability in certain aspects of your life. 

• mental health
• routine
• stability
• wellness