How to Use Novelty to Feel More Alive Every Day

Routines Are Great…Until They’re Not

Routines can be sacred. Especially if you’re a homeschooling parent, productivity junkie, or even just trying to survive.

But even the most solid system can become a cage if you never step outside of it – “Don’t let your rituals become ruts”.

Novelty Slows Down Time

While structure is great, so is knowing when to burn it down for a day or two.

I was reminded by Ali Abdaal’s “Holiday Paradox” video that our sense of time flies by when every day looks the same because our brains switch into autopilot.

But when you experience something new, your brain takes more mental “snapshots”, making time feel longer, fuller, richer.

“Life is long if you know how to use it.” – Seneca

Give Your Brain a Jolt (On Purpose)

Schedule regular adventures, & treat them like an appointment you’ll get arrested for if you miss.

You don’t have to get too crazy or too rigid about it – it could be a random Tuesday hike, working from a grocery store cafe, or even a spontaneous dance party in the kitchen.

The point is to get weird on purpose. Let your brain break the pattern. Novelty naturally makes you more creative, resilient, & present.

The Power of a “Fuck It” Day

I’ve mentioned my “Do Nothing Days” before – once a week, I give myself full permission to say “fuck it” to my whole routine. And it’s a breath of fresh air!

So skip the lesson plan, leave the dishes, & toss your planner out the window (metaphorically).

These days are to recalibrate your spirit, & remind you that you’re not a robot.

Flexibility is Strength

While routines can help us thrive, adaptability keeps us alive.

Don’t let your days blur into one big beige loop. Add some neon. Smash a routine or two. And if you try it this week — I wanna hear about it! Let’s swap weird ideas in the comments.

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You’re not a robot. Rock on.