How to Stick to Your Habits—Even When You're Out of Your Routine
Breaking bad habits like mindless scrolling is hard enough when life is normal—but it gets even trickier when you're out of your usual routine. Whether you're traveling, staying with family, or just in a new environment, sticking to healthy habits can feel like a challenge. I recently experienced this firsthand while house-sitting at my parents’ place. Not only was I out of my normal rhythm, but I was also in the very environment where many of my bad phone habits began.
This week’s tip is all about how to maintain your goals and routines—even when your surroundings change.
1. Keep As Much of Your Routine As Possible
One of the best ways to stick to your habits in a new environment is to replicate your usual routine as closely as possible. Habits often trigger one another: maybe you drink a cup of coffee and then go for a run. Even in a different setting, sticking to that same sequence (like having coffee at your usual time) can help you follow through with the next action (going for a run).
The same principle applies to digital habits. If you've been working on reducing screen time or breaking a social media habit, keeping your morning or evening rituals consistent can help you stay on track. Routine provides a sense of structure and stability that helps you navigate change more easily.
2. Time Block Your Day to Avoid Mindless Scrolling
One mistake I made last week? I brought my hobbies with me—but didn’t schedule time for them. Without a plan, I found myself falling back into old behaviors, like reaching for my phone out of boredom.
Time blocking can be a powerful tool to stay intentional. Set aside specific times for hobbies, self-care, or even relaxation. When your day has structure, it’s easier to resist the pull of mindless scrolling. Write down what you want to do and when—and treat it like an appointment with yourself.
3. Be Patient and Give Yourself Grace
Let’s be real: we’re all human. It’s okay if you slip up when you're out of your routine. What matters most is your ability to recognize the slip and keep going. Personal growth isn’t about perfection—it’s about consistency over time.
So if you fall back into an old habit, don’t beat yourself up. Take a deep breath, maybe a hot shower, and start fresh the next day. You’re doing the work, and that’s what counts.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're traveling, staying with loved ones, or just navigating a temporary shift in your environment, staying committed to your goals is possible. By maintaining routine, planning ahead, and showing yourself compassion, you’ll keep your progress going—even when life gets a little unpredictable.
