Adjustments

Adjustments

Dr. Linda Hancock

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. Hancock has written a regular weekly column entitled “All Psyched Up” for newspapers in two Canadian provinces for more than a dozen years. Over the years, her readers and clients have said that they have benefited from her common-sense solutions, wisdom, and sense of humour. Dr. Linda Hancock, the author of “Life is An Adventure…every step of the way” and “Open for Business Success” is a Registered Psychologist who has a private practice in Medicine Hat. She can be reached at 403-529-6877 or through email office@drlindahancock.com

Published

October 31 2024

Most people like to have a routine that is familiar but because people are different, routines are also different.

Here are some of the variations:

The rigid routine – My grandson can be depended upon to always be doing the same thing at the same time in the same place. He returns from work, changes his clothes, heads for the gym and does his workout every day. Usually, he gets home again after his parents have had supper, so he heats the leftovers and heads to the basement to play video games with his friends. On Sundays he does his laundry and prepares for work. I admire his consistency. Those who have similar patterns find comfort in the routine and can become anxious if it is threatened.
The chaotic routine – Some people just do whatever they want with a form of randomness. These are the individuals who are willing to follow impulsive suggestions without a lot of notice or thought. Many enjoy their experiences in a serendipity manner and might be viewed as risk-takers who always seem to be involved in interesting situations. The downside of this might be that they do not always fulfill commitments or live a life with any sort of order.
The balanced routine – Adopting a lifestyle with a flexible schedule can be suitable for some. Being committed to people and activities can bring comfort while allowing oneself the opportunity to make and accept changes can be an attractive pattern.

There are many times in life that our routines are disrupted, and we are forced to adjust. Death is usually not predicted so the occurrence can throw us into stressful and sad periods of time. One of the most difficult adjustments to make is when we face any type of loss – a divorce, house fire, job termination, residential move or unrealized dream.

People who feel out of control, unable to make choices or inadequate when change occurs might not act or feel like themselves.

The good news is that if we slow down, find good support and lower our expectations, we will likely navigate through chaos and even make adjustments that will offer growth and even better circumstances.

This week think about the changes you have faced and how you have adjusted.