6 Ways to Ease Back into Routine After Indulgence

January is the month to "get stuff done" -- after setting your New Year intentions and goals you're probably feeling the surge of motivation that goes along with it. However, the funny thing about January is that the most motivating time of the year falls immediately after the most relaxing and "uninhibited" time of the year. 

Fresh on the heels of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Eve, most of us are well adjusted to "holiday mode" once it comes time to plan for the new year and set goals. Getting back into the swing of things (ie. a normal day-to-day routine) can be easier said than done. 

If you're feeling like extending vacation for another month or two, you're not alone. But, January is half-way over and, believe it or not, it's time to start tackling those projects, goals, and intentions. 

Here are a few of our favorite ways to ease back into your routine (or, maybe, create a routine you love for the first time), after the long holiday slump. 

1. Take it slow

Like getting back into school after summer vacation as a child, returning to "the grind" after the holidays can leave a bad taste about your job or daily routine. To combat these negative associations, give yourself room to feel disappointed/reluctant while easing yourself back into reality. Don't feel like you have to perform at 100% right away or like you should be feeling bright and chirpy when you walk into work. Give yourself time to take the adjustment slowly.

2. Don't take on too much

Similarly, fight off overwhelm as much as you can. Don't say "yes" to too many projects/events/playdates/chores because you'll soon feel the burn out you were so ready to leave before the holidays. If you're feeling ambitious about your New Year resolutions, remember not to overdo it, which will decrease your chances of success. 

3. Find a planner you adore

It may sound cheesy, but we are all about finding a planner (or app) that makes your heart skip a beat. When you're more excited to plan and stick to a routine, you're more likely to keep up the momentum as the year progresses. 

4. Create a loose daily schedule

If you work from home, stay home with kiddos, or have a flexible work schedule, it can be tempting to let certain tasks (or, let's be real, entire days)  "slide" until you feel ready to reconquer them. Instead of fighting a to-do list that seems insurmountable, simplify your goals and create a do-able daily schedule that checks off all of your necessities and still leaves time for rest.  

5. Reward yourself along the way

Bribery, even self-bribery, will get you far. If you're unmotivated to dive into your goals or are making slow progress, set up a reward system with yourself. Take yourself out to your favorite ice cream shop when you reach a milestone; treat yourself to a spa day; book a weekend staycation. Creating something to look forward to will make your success even sweeter. 

6. Reevaluate as you go

The pressure to be "perfect" at your new goals this time of year can be intense. Give yourself grace and, if you find yourself losing motivation or wanting to give up early on, reevaluate. Consider why you chose this particular goal in the first place and, if necessary, restructure it to be a better fit.