routines vs projects

[Jamie Elis]

Well, I admit that almost nothing is on autopilot in my work or play life; I have not followed routines in years. You might say that my routine is to flutter around, dealing with crises and then land to try to urgently catch up with the stuff that most people do regularly. So my interesting projects, where I can use my creativity and insight get pushed aside for these crises projects. I was just thinking that I might be less routine avoidant if I had a better feeling for what the normative range is--is their some minimum, in either hours or actions that most people are doing routine things? I am feeling I better start on a long term adaptation to reality in regard to routines. I have read for example for successful writers and academics write a minimum of a good page per day or as much as 1000 words. In contrast, "binge" writers may write more at the end of a year's time but they are not as successful. Stands to reason. So, my question is, what proportion of one'swork day or week is following routines? What about, one's play time?

 

[TesTeq]

My whole life seems to be one big routine.

So, my question is, what proportion of one'swork day or week is following routines? What about, one's play time?

My whole life seems to be one big routine but I like it. I always try to convert new unexpected things into items in my life's framework. It may seem odd and dull but I am satisfied with what I achieved using this approach.

 

[Oogiem]

So, my question is, what proportion of one'swork day or week is following routines? What about, one's play time?

For me, given that routines can span seasons I spend 60-75% of my time on routine stuff.

I find that my play time is more satisfying if I follow routines, i.e. I have more fun and enjoyment if I plan for and routinely do some reading, some knitting, some spinning and so on vs continually feeling discouraged I didn't get to do any fun stuff.

The only things that are not routines are one off major projects and emergencies. One offs usually have clear start and end points and emergencies are unpredictable.

My routine for emergencies is to have the tools and items I need ready and available so that when the emergency hits I can deal with it with a minimum of extra stress. Example is I now carry a leatherman tool on my belt everywhere, 2 emergencies with lambs tangled in the electric fence who died meant that I never want to be in the position of trying to break wire by hand while holding a struggling lamb and trying to phone my husband on my cell phone ever again.

 

[Suelin23]

I used to have a set routine for virtually the entire week except Sunday. Very tightly stipulated eg 6am have breakfast, vitamins, etc.
Now I have checklists, and rely more on my GTD lists and calendar appointments.
It feels much better that way, more flexible and integrated.