The Power of Routine

Approaching 40, Darren Openshaw, a businessman from Lytham, Lancashire, was juggling endless work demands whilst trying to be there for his young family, he knew something had to change or break. So, in the face of continuous distractions and unpredictability on a day to day basis with little reprieve, Darren took a short step back and decided on establishing a new daily routine which he was going to stick to. He found this to be a powerful way to create balance and enhance his productivity. By setting a consistent schedule, he managed his time and energy more effectively, leading to a healthier, more fulfilling lifestyle. Both his family and businesses reaped the benefits too. Darren’s story is a perfect example of how embracing routine can transform your day-to-day experience. Here’s how he did it.

Finding Balance through Routine

Darren was used to putting in the hard yards, took pride in it even, justifying and comparing the hours he worked to historical figures he looked up to, but with his 40^th birthday looming, he knew he was beginning to creak under the pressure of work demands when they were mixed with his busy homelife, it felt like there was no escape from the constant pressure. He loved the time spent with his family and he has a real passion for his work, but with deadlines looming and tasks piling up on all fronts, making it necessary to work even later into the evening and at weekends, it left no time for leisure or hobbies.

He knew needed to prioritise more time with his new daughter, and to make sure he was fully present when with her, ensuring that work no longer dominated his time 24 hours a day. Determined to find a solution, Darren decided to establish a new daily routine. He carefully structured his day to include dedicated time for work, rest, and play.

Left: View from Lytham Jetty. Centre: Lytham Windmill. Right: Darren’s office on Preston Marina

Early mornings, Darren allocated time for exercise and a healthy breakfast, setting a positive tone for the day. He then segmented his work hours, allowing for focused, uninterrupted periods of productivity interspersed with time to catch up on communication and perhaps most importantly, short breaks to move his body and give his eyes a break from the screen. Evenings were then split on set days between work and family time, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings were his time to spend late in the office, the rest were for his family and just as importantly himself. He says he’s still striving for more relaxation time, but he jokes which parent isn’t looking for this, as long as home and work life is enjoyable, he’s more than happy.

By sticking to this routine, Darren found that he could manage his time and energy more effectively.

By sticking to this routine, Darren found that he could manage his time and energy more effectively. He became more productive, felt less stressed, and enjoyed a healthier, more balanced life.

The Benefits of Establishing a Daily Routine

Increased Productivity: Having a set schedule helps you prioritise tasks and stay focused. You can allocate specific times for work, minimising distractions and enhancing efficiency.
Reduced Stress: Routine provides a sense of structure and predictability, reducing the anxiety that comes with uncertainty and last-minute decisions.
Better Time Management: By planning your day, you can ensure that you allocate time for all important activities, including time with loved ones, work and rest.
Enhanced Wellbeing: A balanced routine that includes time for exercise, healthy meals, and relaxation can significantly improve your physical and mental health.

Darren’s key tips for creating a Daily Routine

If you think you could benefit from more routine in your life why not start by creating a daily schedule that fits in time for work, rest, and play. Here are some of Darren’s tips to help you get started:

Morning Routine: Begin your day with activities that set a positive tone, such as exercise, meditation, or a nutritious breakfast. This can boost your mood and energy levels for the rest of the day.
Work Segments: Divide your work hours into focused blocks with short breaks in between. This can help maintain concentration and prevent burnout.
Evening Routine: Dedicate time in the evening for winding down. Engage in activities that help you relax, such as reading, spending time with family, or pursuing a hobby.
Consistency: Stick to your routine as much as possible. Consistency is key to reaping the benefits of a structured schedule. Don’t beat yourself up when things don’t do to plan, just strive to get back on track after a day or week of curveballs.

Tips for Maintaining Your Routine

Be Realistic: Set achievable goals and be flexible. It’s important to adapt your routine as needed rather than sticking rigidly to an unworkable schedule.
Prioritise: Focus on the most important tasks first. Identify your key priorities each day and allocate time accordingly.
Include Breaks: Regular breaks are essential for maintaining productivity and avoiding burnout. Short breaks can rejuvenate your mind and improve focus.
Reflect and Adjust: Regularly assess your routine and make adjustments as needed. What works one month might need tweaking the next.

Establishing a daily routine can be a game-changer in managing time and energy effectively. Darren’s story highlights how a well-structured day can lead to a more productive, balanced, and healthier life. By creating a routine that includes time for work, rest, and play, you can take control of your day and enhance your overall wellbeing.

Remember, the key to a successful routine is consistency and flexibility. Start today by mapping out your ideal day, and gradually incorporate these changes into your life. Soon, you’ll find yourself more organised, less stressed, and thriving in your daily activities.

For more tips on creating effective routines and improving your daily life, explore EchoSoul’s resources and join our community of individuals committed to personal growth and balanced living.