Variety isn’t as Spicy as I thought (The Struggle For Routine)

Change is good. Right?

At least that’s what I’ve always wanted to believe.
When I was younger I thought I wanted variety. Spice of life and all that. Let every day be different. Different scenes. Different sights. Fresh, new activities. Routine is boring. A schedule is my bane.

I now know that’s not how to operate at my highest capacity. There is something about following routine that puts my body and my brain in the right place for creativity and focus.

I’m just about finished reading the book “Daily Rituals: How Artists Work” by Mason Currey. Here are a few takeaways:

1. The details of the routine aren’t as important as having a routine.
2. Being an early bird or a night owl isn’t important. Being alone and focussed is.
3. Consistent and concentrated work is more important than long hours. Especially for writing. (Many writers only work 3-4 focussed, uninterrupted hours per day.)
4. Naps are not only allowed. They’re good.
5. Walk. For exercise and for thinking.
6. Eccentricities are okay. But it’s probably best to stay away from overindulgence of alcohol and amphetamines.

Find a routine that works for you.

Then keep it.