Repetition in our lives is often perceived as a negative.  We’re stuck in a rut. I thought I’d look up how that phrase is defined and this is what I discovered: in a settled or established habit or course of action, especially a boring one. I love the descriptive, ‘boring’. Repetition and constant is considered boring since it is predictable.  Most of us want a bit of excitement, a spike of adrenalin, once in a while. When we do the same thing, wake up at the same time, eat the same foods, shop the same stores, do the same chores, follow the same social media channels, watch the same programs, etc., life becomes boring and we’ve become stuck in a rut.  One thing about a rut, if you try to get out of it, you can get knocked right back into it by hitting the edge.

On the flip-side is ‘being in the groove’, an old school phrase with new life in today’s world.  Being in the groove indicates performing well, being up-to-date.  I like the sound of being in the groove much better than stuck in a rut.  When you’re in the groove, if you move to the edge, I imagine it being a smooth, gradual slope so you can easily transition to another without stumbling. For those of us from the vinyl record generation, picture the needle seamlessly progressing along the gentle grooves on the LP, one easy, continuous motion.

What does it take to make the move from a rut to a groove?  There is comfort in a rut.  The expectations are easily met because they’re known.  Things never change.  If there’s no change, are you growing?  I think there are times in our lives when being in a rut is a comfort especially after wading through tumultuous circumstances.  Rest and predictability are welcome and gives us a chance to catch our breath and run on autopilot. Remaining too long in a rut will prevent us from learning and developing.

Where are you currently riding – stuck in a rut or moving in the groove?

I looked at a typical day and began thinking of where I could welcome change – even the smallest of modifications.  Here are some ideas I came up with:

• Read a new author
• Listen to a new variety of music/podcast
• Go for a walk in a different neighborhood
• Wear a color out of my usual palette
• Take the scenic route
• Try a new vegetable or fruit from a farmers market.
• Do my make-up differently or go without!
• Reach out to friends before they reach out to me
• Ask someone how they’re doing and stop and intentionally listen.
• Try a new hobby
• Create theme night for family
• Instead of watching TV, do something!  Play a game, have a dance party, etc.
• Reorient furniture in a room.
• Find a memento that’s been buried in a drawer; place it where it will be seen every day.

Embrace a small change and perhaps it will be just enough to get you in the groove.

What are some changes you could make?