Starting a New Routine

Posted on by

While routine may sound boring to some people, it is a key element in getting our finances in order.  Sure there are more fun things to do with our time like streaming our favorite shows, scrolling through our social media accounts or listening to podcasts. But, if we took just 10 minutes and spent it analyzing our finances each day, by the end of the month, we would have spent 5 hours of quality time devoted to creating a healthier relationship with our money. Not only is 10 minutes not a long time, but it will feel seamless and not like a chore. We could become aware of how we spent our money and there wouldn’t be the question, “Where did my money go this month?”

Up on Spending Habits

According to the ratings company DataReportal, the average American spent 6 hours and 59 minutes looking at a screen. This includes 2hrs and 16 minutes scrolling social media and 1hr and 12 minutes listening to podcasts. Instead of being up to date on all the celebrity gossip, sports scores or shows, we could be up on our spending habits. In one month, we could begin to track our expenses and develop a budget, implement a strategy on eliminating our debt, or better yet, generate a successful financial plan. All this can be achieved, by shutting off the screens.

10 Minutes a Day

Yes, at the end of the day, all we want is to eat dinner and relax. Just the word “Finances” can generate agitation and frustration.  Who wants to think about money after getting home from work every day? But, if we take a closer look, money is constantly on our mind. It is probably one of the topics which we are mostly concerned with; however, we do it absentmindedly. By setting 10 minutes aside, we could begin to think about our finances with complete awareness.

It is important when doing this exercise, to be aware of our body and mind.  

  • How does our body react to finances? 
  • Where in our body do finances reside?
  • What are our thoughts? 

By becoming present, we can develop strategies to help us cope with financial anxiety or depression. Using a method which can be as simple as taking deep breaths to help us relax.  Journaling can help if our mind becomes too scattered to focus. If all else fails and we become overwhelmed, a mindful walk can soothe the body and mind.

When starting this routine, it is crucial to set a fixed time everyday to do it. This will create a healthy habit.  There is a pitfall of becoming consumed by the task and spending more time than needed. If we spend more than 10 minutes, it will become a chore. We will end up spending hours and losing sleep over it. The remedy is to set a timer. When the timer goes off, we put everything away and do something else. We can pick up where we left off the next day.

No More Complaining

For the next month, instead of complaining about our finances, why not put down the remote control and take this time to create a routine which will be more beneficial than watching TV. In one month, our state of mind will become more relaxed, our attitude will improve, and we will establish a healthier environment for ourselves and those around us.

Seeking Help

If you are depressed, anxious, or have panic attacks, find a health professional who can help you. 

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National can provide free referrals. They are open 24/7, 365 days a year.

If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, please contact 988 for help. The calls are free, confidential, and they are open 24/7 to help you navigate difficult emotions. 

Attend a Workshop

If you are interested in attending an live webinar on improving your routine, please visit my events.

Related Posts

Incorporating
Healthy Habits		Mindful Check-inPerseverance – How to Continue
When We Get Stuck?
Sticking to
Our Method		Financial AnxietyHow to Create Mindfulness
Around Our Finances

References