The Comfort of Routine—And Embracing the Shift Ahead
Katie Lyke | Austin Lifestyle Newborn, Family, and Branding Photographer
I’ve always been a creature of habit. There’s something deeply comforting about the rhythm of my daily routines—the way they give structure to my day and a sense of calm amid the chaos. My routines help me feel grounded, productive, and at peace. But in this season, with baby sister’s arrival just around the corner, I’m very aware that these rhythms are about to shift.
The thing is, I used to think routines only worked if they stayed the same. If I missed a workout, skipped a task, or broke a streak, I felt like I’d failed. (I once tried to work out while I had the flu—yep, I was that committed.) But I’ve since learned to hold my routines with open hands. Jess Massey says it so well: “Schedules and routines are tools, not chains – they are tools that are meant to make our lives easier – not chains that bog us down or stress us out.”
Now, I know that routines are meant to support me—not define me. They help me feel my best, but they’re flexible enough to bend when life changes. And life is definitely about to change.
My Daily Routines (For Now)
These rhythms are what work for me in this season—before newborn snuggles, unpredictable naps, and sleepless nights become our new normal.
Morning Quiet Time
Before the house wakes up, I take a few moments for myself for devotional, prayer, and hot coffee. This helps me start the day centered and grounded.
Opening Duties
I start with small wins that set the tone: clear the sink, wipe the table, make the bed, and get dressed (workout clothes if I’m moving that day). These little habits bring order and momentum.
Move My Body (Most Days)
A 20-30 minute workout—yoga, Peloton, Pilates, walking, or strength—gives me a mental reset, calms my anxiety, and helps my body feel strong. But more importantly, I’m learning how to listen to my body—especially during pregnancy—and take real rest days without guilt.
Power Hour
This is my time to make progress: decluttering, working on the baby’s room, or tidying the house. A focused hour keeps things manageable and peaceful.
Afternoon Routine
This slower block of time after I pick Everly up from school is one of my absolute favorites and always includes a snack, reading (chapter book + reader), a kiddo-led activity, and prepping dinner. It’s a rhythm that prioritizes connection and presence.
Evening Routine
The final wind-down: dishes, prep coffee, get Everly’s lunch and backpack ready, wipe the table, quick tidy, shower, pajamas, and clear my Notion task list while setting up tomorrow’s plan.
Making Room for the New
As we prepare to welcome our newest family member, I know my routines won’t look exactly like this much longer. I also know that’s okay. I’m not striving for perfection—I’m embracing the beauty of this new season and the grace it calls for.
There will be missed checklists and messy days, late nights and slow mornings. But I trust myself to rest when I need it and return to structure when I’m ready. These routines aren’t going anywhere—they’ll just evolve to fit our new life.
Routines bring me peace, but they don’t define my worth. They support the version of me I am right now—and will continue to do so, even as that version changes. I’m holding space for both the rhythms that ground me and the flexibility this new chapter requires.
Here’s to routines that grow with us—and the grace to welcome the change.
Photos from a recent product and branding session with Shop Jenessa Wait, who creates beautiful, faith-filled home decor and accessories that fit seamlessly into daily routines!