Is Your Routine Helping You or Holding You Back?

The Better Workday Podcast – Episode 56 with Niamh Moynihan

Episode Summary

In this episode of The Better Workday Podcast, Niamh Moynihan returns from a short break to discuss the role of routines in creating a better workday.

Niamh shares three examples of how routines can support our workday, while questioning whether we have become too rigid in certain areas of work.

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Key Takeaways

The Importance of Scheduled Breaks

Niamh reminds listeners of the importance of taking breaks at work and highlights that this is a key area that benefits from routine. She recommends booking a recurring lunch break in your calendar. Without this anchor, breaks get squeezed out, and energy dips become unavoidable.

Wearing a Uniform to Free Up Mental Space

A work ‘uniform’, even if it's just a handful of consistent outfit choices, removes unnecessary decisions and supports a smoother start to the day, especially when balancing remote work and video meetings.

Daily Non-Negotiables That Simplify Focus

Niamh outlines how assigning one key task to each weekday helps her reduce friction and build momentum. These small, daily routines create a rhythm without an overwhelming to-do list.

The Downside of Over-Routinising Hybrid Work

In hybrid settings, many professionals separate tasks into "home" and "office" categories. But Niamh warns that this approach can backfire when plans change. Too much rigidity leads to stress when flexibility is needed most.

Environmental Shifts That Boost Creativity

From rearranging furniture to fixing that annoying office chair, minor changes to the workspace can refresh focus and energy, especially when creativity feels low.

Practical Tips

• Add Breaks to Your Calendar:  Treat lunch like any other meeting. Protect it by scheduling it daily at the same time each day.
  
  
• Simplify Wardrobe Decisions:  Choose 2–3 go-to outfits for workdays, particularly useful for on-camera or client-facing roles.
  
  
• Theme Your Weekdays:  Assign specific types of work to each day. This provides structure without stifling flexibility.
  
  
• Test Your Hybrid Flexibility:  Switch up where you complete certain tasks. If you usually do something from home, try doing it at the office.
  
  
• Change Your Setup:  Modify your workspace to refresh your mindset. Even small changes can improve focus and energy.
  
  

Take Action This Week

Routines are powerful tools for reducing stress and increasing focus, but only when they remain flexible and adaptable.

Take 30 minutes this week to audit your daily routines and identify any changes you can make to create a better workday.

Until next time, stay well and have a better workday.

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