How to Succeed at Creating New Routines

With the new school year beginning, there’s no better time to reset and establish the routines you actually want in your life. Fresh starts carry their own kind of energy—just like sharpened pencils and blank notebooks, they invite us to create something new.

Personally, one of the routines I’m building is bringing nourishing food with me to work. It’s a simple choice, but one that supports my energy, focus, and overall well-being. Because when I don’t, let’s be honest, I end up eating whatever’s most convenient.

Here’s the truth: routines don’t succeed because of superhuman discipline. They succeed because of strategy—and a touch of creativity. Here are some of the most proven tips and tricks to set yourself up for success when creating new routines: 

1. Start Small, Think Big

Don’t overwhelm yourself by trying to reinvent your entire life overnight. Start with one small, doable action:

Two minutes of meditation.

A walk around the block or 15 minutes of a walk/run combo.  

An extra glass of water.

Tiny wins may not feel glamorous, but they create momentum. Think of it as casting votes for the future version of yourself you’re becoming.

2. Anchor Your New Routine to What You Already Do

Habits stick best when they’re tied to something already automatic—this is called habit stacking. For example:

After brushing your teeth, floss one tooth (let’s be real - you are going to keep going).

After brewing coffee, write down three gratitudes.

After changing into pajamas, read one page of a book.

By linking the new to the familiar, you create natural reminders that make following through effortless.

3. Design Your Environment for Ease

Your environment can make or break your habits. Instead of relying only on willpower, design your surroundings to support your goals:

Place workout clothes where you’ll see them in the morning.

Keep nourishing snacks visible and easy to grab.

Tuck your phone out of sight during focus time.

Make the healthy choice the easy choice—and the less supportive habits just a little harder.

4. Add Beauty and Reward

We repeat what feels good. So make your routine feel enjoyable—even luxurious.

Light a candle before journaling.

Save a favorite podcast for your walks.

Celebrate with a tracker, checkmark, or even a small ritual of acknowledgment.

Your routines become more than habits—they become rituals of self-care.

5. Focus on Identity, Not Just Outcomes

Goals are motivating, but identity is transformative. Instead of saying, “I want to lose 20 pounds,” say, “I am someone who honors my body with movement.” Every time you follow through, you strengthen that identity.

Over time, it becomes less about forcing action and more about living in alignment with who you are becoming.

6. Allow Grace (Consistency Over Perfection)

Life happens. You’ll miss a day—maybe two. The key is to avoid letting a slip become a spiral. Return gently, without judgment. Remember: consistency—not perfection—is what creates transformation.

 Key Takeaway:
Routines aren’t about rigidity—they’re about creating a foundation that supports the life you want to live. Start small, tie habits to what you already do, design an environment that sets you up for success, and make your routines feel like a gift to yourself.

This season is the perfect opportunity to choose rituals that nourish not just your schedule, but your mind, body, and spirit. And if one of those routines happens to be bringing your own food to work? Trust me—it feels a lot better than another drive-through lunch.

What new routine are you creating this season?