Self-help Plan your day
Planning a daily routine. Many people feel far better if their day has a fixed structure. It may be very hard for you to resume a daily routine because of your current circumstances and where you are living. Perhaps you feel that your days just go past without you doing anything. This is quite understandable! If you often feel bad, it can be a big help to plan each day and give it structure.
Instructions:
- “Script” for the day. Plan what you are going to do tomorrow. It’s often helpful to write this plan down.
- Be realistic in your planning. Think carefully about what is possible at the moment and what isn’t. Don’t plan too much for one day. If you have a larger goal, think very carefully about which small steps you can take on a single day in order to get closer towards achieving this goal. Include these small steps in your daily routine.
- Not just jobs or duties but also time to relax and enjoy things. Looking after yourself also means making sure you have enough time for relaxation. This may mean simple activities like going for a walk. But also activities like exercise, reading or chatting, depending on what you prefer and what helps you.
- Time for socialising. Talking and socialising with other people are fundamental human needs. Try to plan fixed activities as much as you can so that you meet other people.
- Creating your own rituals. Daily routines are easier to keep if you start each day at about the same time. It also helps if you have fixed “rituals” during the week. Go for a walk or do sports on a set evening each week. Set aside a specific time in the week for activities like writing letters, discovering the area where you live or meeting friends.
- Preparation. Have a look at your schedule for the next day. Don’t plan too much at one time. Doing just one thing is often enough. Try to look forward to the next day. It can help you start the day in a good mood.
- Trying to plan a daily routine. If you’d like to try to make a conscious plan for the next few days, then here is a weekly timetable that you can download and fill out.
