The unpredictable nature of life, coupled with the many challenges and lessons that get placed in our path, means veering off track is something we all experience at times, to some degree. The issue is not whether or not we veer off track and to an extent, stray from our routines. The issue is how quickly we identify that we have strayed from what helps build structure, support, and sustainability into our lifestyle and how easily we are able to move back into alignment.

So, what can you do when you veer off track and things don’t go to plan? There are 4 steps to getting back on track that have proven particularly helpful each time life rocked my boat and I found myself either feeling a little or completely off balance.

Reflect: It’s important to notice what’s been happening recently in your life and identify any major life changes, disruptions, or added responsibilities. This is where your weekly reset and the journaling prompts provided earlier in this chapter will help you become aware of your ‘why.’

With love: Practice self-compassion and acknowledge that you’re human. As a result, we all experience hiccups, setbacks, and challenges that we need to face and overcome. That’s simply part of life but you can and will get through it. There’s no use beating yourself up if you find yourself overworking and burnt out, procrastinating and falling behind, or skipping your morning workouts or daily meditation. Identify what’s happened, acknowledge where you are, and use it to inform how you’ll move forward.

Identify your supports: Your support network is your greatest asset in life. If you have a great psychologist, life coach, counsellor, or mentor, make sure to reach out for added support, to help you get back into your routines and feeling like your best self as soon as possible. Maybe your support network includes colleagues, teachers, family, or friends? Perhaps you have a great GP, or naturopath you can reach out to if you’re concerned about your wellbeing?

Edit: The last step I want you to do is to make some necessary changes. What needs changing in your life, so that you can feel more supported, energised, focused and able to show up as your best self? This is your invitation to start fresh and to head back to the drawing board and think about a manageable plan to help you get back on track. This may even be something you work on with your support network.

Challenges are part of life and always bring an opportunity to learn and grow. Next time you need to get your life back together, try applying these steps and take comfort in having a framework to help get you back on track.

With Love,

Jessica