Okay, so the past two months have been a mess. First, I got sick (nothing dramatic, just the kind that makes you feel like a useless burrito on the couch). Then, right when I started feeling better, I had to move. And let me tell you, nothing throws your life into chaos like a pile of half-packed boxes, missing socks, and realizing you own 37 mugs (20+ having cats on them, of course) but can’t find a single plate.
Between recovering, packing, unpacking, and trying to keep up with daily responsibilities, I had no time or energy to post anything. But now I’m back, and I want to share how I’m trying to get back on track. If your life ever feels like a tornado just rolled through, here are some ways to reset and regain control.
Why We Fall Off Track (and Why It’s Okay)
Life happens. Sometimes it’s unexpected events – illness, a move, a breakup. Other times, it’s just a slow unraveling of routines. One skipped workout turns into a month. A few late nights turn into an upside-down sleep schedule. Suddenly, your to-do list looks like a horror movie script.
The good news? Falling off track is normal. The better news? You can always find your way back. Here’s how.
1. Start Small: The Power of Tiny Wins
When everything feels overwhelming, the worst thing you can do is try to fix it all at once. Instead, start small.
- Make your bed – It’s a cliché for a reason. One tiny act of control can set the tone for your day.
- Drink water – Your body and brain function better when hydrated (shocking, I know).
- Tidy up one area – Don’t Marie Kondo your entire home. Just clear off one counter or desk space.
These tiny wins trick your brain into feeling accomplished, making it easier to tackle bigger tasks.
2. How to Get Your Life Organized and Back on Track
Once you’ve gained momentum, it’s time to bring some structure back.
Prioritize What Matters
Not everything on your to-do list is urgent. Ask yourself:
- What needs to be done today?
- What can wait?
- What can I delegate or eliminate?
Use a Brain Dump Method
Write down everything on your mind. Then, categorize it: urgent, important, can wait, and why is this even here?
Create a Realistic Schedule
If you plan your day like a robot with unlimited energy, you’ll burn out by noon. Be realistic:
- Set time limits for tasks.
- Include breaks (real breaks, not “I’ll just check Instagram for 2 minutes” breaks).
- Have a wind-down routine at the end of the day.
3. How to Get Sleep Schedule Back on Track
If your sleep schedule is a disaster (been there), fixing it should be a top priority. Sleep affects everything – your mood, focus, energy, and ability to make good decisions (like not eating chips at midnight).
Fix Your Sleep in Three Steps
Don’t overcomplicate the routine. Stick with the proven-to-be-right steps:
| 📝 Step | ✔ Action |
| Set a bedtime | Pick a time and stick to it, even on weekends. |
| Avoid screens before bed | Blue light confuses your brain into thinking it’s daytime. |
| Create a bedtime routine | Wind down with reading, journaling, or anything that doesn’t involve doom-scrolling. |
If you’re resetting after weeks of bad sleep, try adjusting your bedtime by 15-30 minutes each night until you reach your ideal time.
4. How to Get Your Mental Health Back on Track
Mental health is just as important as physical health when getting back on track. If you’re feeling off, try these:
- Talk to someone – A friend, a therapist, or even a journal. Getting thoughts out of your head helps.
- Get outside – Fresh air and sunlight can do wonders.
- Limit negativity – Reduce time spent with energy-draining people or mindlessly scrolling social media.
- Do something just for fun – Not everything has to be productive. Rewatch your favorite movie, doodle, or dance like no one’s watching (or like everyone’s watching, whatever makes you happy).
For me, rewatching Friends, That 70s Show, or Gilmore Girls feels warm and best for these types of days. What’s your go-to TV show for feeling cozy?
5. How to Get Back to a Healthy Lifestyle
After weeks (or months) of chaos, eating habits and exercise routines can take a hit. Instead of diving into a strict regimen, ease back in.
Easy Ways to Restart a Healthy Routine
Again, simple but realistic and easy ways to build your routine back:
- Drink more water – Again, it’s basic but effective.
- Add movement – No need for a 60-minute workout. A 10-minute walk is a great start.
- Choose one meal to clean up – Don’t overhaul your entire diet overnight. Start with breakfast or lunch.
- Don’t punish yourself – Eating a cookie doesn’t mean the whole day is ruined. Balance is key.
6. Use a “Reset Day” to Get Back on Track
A Reset Day is one day dedicated to getting life in order – cleaning, planning, and catching up on things that have piled up. It’s like hitting the refresh button. My favourite choice is a Sunday.
How to Plan a Reset Day:
- Make a short list. Pick 3–5 things that will make the biggest difference.
- Batch tasks. Group similar things together (laundry + cleaning, meal prep + grocery shopping).
- Create a nice vibe. Put on music, light a candle, whatever makes it feel less like a chore.
- Don’t overdo it. This isn’t about doing everything—just enough to feel reset.
After my Reset Day, I felt way less overwhelmed and way more in control.
FAQs About Getting Back on Track
Getting back on track can feel overwhelming, and you’re not alone in having questions. Here are some common ones to help guide you through the process.
Start with small actions. Motivation follows action, not the other way around. Do one productive thing, and the momentum will build.
Give yourself grace. Big changes take time. Focus on rebuilding routines little by little rather than expecting to bounce back instantly.
It depends on how off-track you were. A few days for minor setbacks, a few weeks for bigger ones. The key is consistency, not speed.
That’s normal. Life isn’t linear. What matters is getting back up each time, even if it’s slower than you’d like.