Every routine is a pathway toward excellence and self-mastery.

Many find routines to offer both stability and advancement. They help us to grow, increase our confidence, and point us toward self-mastery. But if you have OCD, the word "routine" might not be clear-cut. Is that a good habit? Alternately, is it really a need?  

Many times, OCD passes itself as "just being structured." It whispers, If you veer off this road, something bad will follow. It can turn everyday tasks into rigid routines that seem hard to break out from. These inclinations might make life seem to be exhausting instead of inspiring excellence. 

The reality is, though, a routine that serves you should feel like a choice, not a chain.  

Routines for Reframing: From Fear to Freedom

A good habit should enable you to feel more grounded rather than more nervous. Instead of thinking "Did I do it perfectly?" try asking: 

• Does this help me grow 

• Is this bringing me toward what counts?

• Is fear deciding for me, or am I choosing this?

This is where Reframelets can be rather useful. Your wristband can help you to stop and reinterpret when OCD starts dragging you into a compulsive loop. You can glance at your wrist and remember instead of returning to check once more or redoing a task for the just right feeling:  

Excellence is under development; it is not perfect.  

Developing Self- Mastery by Selection  

Self-mastery is not about imposing control over everything. It's about realizing your choosing power. Real development comes from creating habits that complement your values rather than from those motivated by fear.  

So go one little step today. Choose a regimen that feeds you rather than one that saps you. And keep in mind that you have the ability to reframe should OCD try to take control. 💙  

Are you trying to change your routines?