Well, another weekend has come and gone, and a new week is starting. I’d like to thank each and every one of you who commented on last Wednesday’s post about my taking a few days for myself. I love this site, so it felt strange to stray from my regular posting schedule. But I needed that break. I really appreciated all of your comments supporting my decision to take a long weekend.
I once heard someone say that “a routine is the enemy of time.” That line struck me. I thought, “Yes. Time passes in the blink of an eye because of my routine.” Perhaps having no routine keeps you in the present moment — constantly engaged and with a sense of wanderlust. But what I’ve found from my time as a blogger — with whatever routine I set for myself — is the precise opposite of the quotation. The absence of a routine is the enemy of time…at least for me. It has tested my discipline, my passion, and my focus. Sometimes one or all three of those things have been lost. My long weekend taught me that without structure, the days tend to blend together with little to separate one from the next. My break also showed me that I crave a routine. For the last few months my routine has been the same: wake up, read lots of blogs, respond to comments, post on social media, and write. Did you notice anything missing from that routine? Like lunch, a walk in the park, time for myself?
Some time away gave me a bit of perspective — I am someone who needs a routine. And not just any old routine, but one that evolves and changes — one that is filled with little things to look forward to. Last week I began meditating, and while I’m only six days in, it is something I plan on incorporating into my daily routine this month. When it comes down to it, a routine is your friend, your stability, your blueprint for activities and goals.
I didn’t plan on using this break for soul-searching, but that’s exactly how it played out. I’m excited to embark on a new routine, embrace the beautiful spring days ahead, and continue to create fun content for you all!
How was your weekend? Did you learn anything new about yourself?
def great points. I try to avoid blogging on the weekends in order to be more “present” but it is hard to pull away from all social media. i feel like blogging more than ever keeps me glued to my phone…
Xx
Kali
http://www.lovelaughexplore.com
@love_laugh_explore
I hear you, Kali! I try to limit the amount of time I spend on social media on the weekends. It’s hard to be present when you are constantly looking at your phone and posting pictures. Knowing when to take a break is so important!
I’m glad you got a well deserved break. You have to look up from the computer screen during certain points of the day to enjoy the beautiful weather, meet a friend for lunch, or get in some exercise! It’s good for the soul and leaves you feeling refreshed!! Happy Monday 🙂
Taffeta & Tulips
Thanks, Kate! I definitely plan on taking full advantage of the nice weather this week. Hope you had a great weekend!
I crave routine as well but it’s good to constantly change up your routine like you a doing. Thanks for sharing your journey. I can alway relate!
http://www.kathrineeldridge.com
Thanks, Kathrine! Hope you had a great weekend.
I just found your blog and really enjoyed reading this post! I am new to blogging and while I love it, I can definitely understand needing to take time to re-charge. While I do love a routine, because I think it keeps me motivated, it’s also important to take time out of your daily tasks to appreciate life. I hope you enjoyed your long weekend!
Happy Monday!
xo Bryn
http://www.waketonroad.com
Thanks, Bryn! I’m so glad you enjoyed this post. I think remembering to take time for yourself is really important — especially when you work from home. Good luck with your blogging endeavors — and welcome to a wonderful community. I’m looking forward to checking out your site. Thank you for visiting Living in Steil!
Great post, thank you so much for sharing beauty
Filipa xxx
PlayingWithApparel.com | Instagram
Thanks, Filipa! I’m glad you enjoyed the post.
Thank you for sharing! I love changing it up –Hanna Lei
Latest Post: How to look Chic in High Waisted Shorts this Summer
Thanks, Hanna!
I’m very much a routine person too. I think it keeps me focused and provides a sense of stability. I think every once in a while, it’s totally normal to incorporate new things, like you’re doing now. Yay you for beginning to meditate!
– Dara // http://www.peoniesandhoneybees.com
Thanks, Dara! A routine definitely helps me feel more productive. I’m glad you enjoyed this post!
Welcome back, Vanessa! Routine is good, and so is spontaneity. It can be a challenge to strike a balance between the two, but life is generally full of surprises and nice things to look forward to. I also had a very restful weekend; it’s important to take some time out and recharge. I hope you’re feeling better, I’ve missed your posts! Angharad x
welshandwonderful.com
Thank you so much for your sweet comment, Angharad! I missed not blogging for a couple of days last week. But I’m back and well-rested now. It was just the break I needed! I hope your week is off to a great start!
Awesome points! I also like routine in some areas and try to constantly evolve it. Good to have you back!
xo
http://www.carinavardie.com
Thanks so much, Carina! Glad to be back!
I’m so glad you enjoyed your much needed break, Vanessa! I agree, having a routine that changes is perfect and helps to prevent anxiety and stress. I need structure, too, but I also need to change things up a tad bit from time to time to keep me motivated and inspired, otherwise, when we fall into a set routine, everting does form into a blur and nothing is therefore exciting! Thanks for sharing the lesson you’ve learned about yourself, it’s one I can surely relate to 🙂 Cheers to a great week ahead!
XO,
Jalisa
http://www.thestylecontour.com
Thanks so much for your sweet comment, Jalisa! It was nice to take a long weekend and use it as a break for myself, but I’m happy to get back to my routine — and incorporate some new things into it to keep it fresh. Hope your week is off to a great start!
Thanks for the advice I need this in my life right now
thenewgirl.me
So glad you enjoyed the post, Darlene!
It sounds like your self-care break was really eye opening! I’m also someone who craves routine and can completely relate to realizing that, while you need routine, you also need to recognize that you might need that routine to change and evolve over time. I hope you’re having a great week Vanessa!
Exactly, Kasie! I’m happy to get back to my routine this week, but I want to add new and exciting things to it so it stays fresh and exciting. Hope you’re having a great week!