Having a routine… is it bad?

  In a previous article, I talked about the fear of change and how constantly living in our comfort zone can get in the way of personal growth. But it’s also important to recognize that not everything familiar is stagnant - and that routine, even with its risks, can be an ally when it comes to our mental health.
  The word “routine” often carries a negative connotation. When we say someone is “stuck in a routine”, there’s almost alwa
ys a tone of discouragement. And it’s easy to see why: no one wants to feel like they’re living on autopilot, with no excitement, no novelty, and no room for the unexpected. But is routine really a synonym for being trapped?
  The truth I’ve come to realize is this: it depends on the routine, and how we relate to it.
  A routine can be toxic if it’s imposed, rigid, inflexible, or if it erases our individuality. But it can be incredibly healthy when it helps us stay organized, brings structure to our day, and creates emotional stability. The human brain craves predictability - and especially in times of stress, routine can act as solid ground to anchor ourselves.
  Having a routine doesn’t mean being stuck in a loop. It means having points of support. A good routine allows us to set aside time for what really matters: sleeping well, eating properly, studying, working, enjoying hobbies, resting. Without a basic structure, it’s very easy to fall into chaos - and mental chaos often begins with a loss of control over time.
  So yes, routine can (and should) be essential to our wellbeing.
Not as a prison, but as a compass. Something that helps us stay on course when everything around us is shifting.
  But, as with everything, balance is key. A healthy routine should include room for flexibility, for spontaneity, and even for doing nothing. Because if we become slaves to routine, it loses its purpose: instead of organising us, it starts to smother us.
  What I’ve learned is that the right routine doesn’t trap us - it protects us.
And building a routine that fits our needs and goals is one of the most effective ways of taking care of our mental health. After all, when the world is in chaos, knowing where we are and where we’re headed might just be all we need.
And you… do you like having a routine?