Routines Help Maintain a Minimal-ish Home

Math was NOT my strong suit. But minimalish math... I can definitely do that!

I recently talked about figuring out what to declutter - keep 20% and dump 80%. It may sound extreme, but that ruthlessness will keep clutter from creeping back (with maintenance, of course!).

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How do you maintain it? You establish routines and systems and adjust your habits. Most families have some form of daily routine, even if it’s NOT working for you. Start with what you’re already doing, and adjust from there.

Yesterday I highlighted the importance of routines for kids. Not only does it help them feel in-control, safe and know what’s next, it also allows them to adapt to changes and be flexible (sounds backwards, maybe!)! When they have established routines it’s easier to get away from them for short periods - they bounce back to what they know faster, they understand the chaos is temporary and they crave that feeling of familiarity.

Back to the math. Try for the following:

⏲️ On-routine - 80% of the time

⏲️ Flexible - 20% of the time

When the numbers get closer together, (say, 50/50), chaos and more tantrums often ensue. Children’s brains are looking for that safety net as they grow, mature and test boundaries. Routines help them, help your home, help yourself and help your family!

Remember - it doesn’t have to be rigid! It just has to WORK for you.

Do you have an established daily routine for your family? Tell me what your favorite and LEAST favorite parts are, below!