One of the biggest issues I run into while traveling is that I lose my sense of routine. It sometimes sounds odd that I follow a pretty strict regimen, but it makes it easier for me (parents can usually appreciate this as well). It goes like this:

4:45 am wake up, work out of some kind, breakfast, shower at 6:30, leave for work by 7:45, various activities depending on day of the week and work obligations, then bed at 9:30 pm.

Why do I follow a routine? It makes it easier for me. I know what to do, when, and having time built in for working out, work, or other activities reduces my stress.

When I travel, the time difference alone wrecks havoc with my routine. When I’m home and off, unexpected family demands–one of the things that drives me crazier than I already am–tend to mess up my planned schedule as well. Note that I’m not saying that they’re not important–very few things are even close to being as important in my book as family–but they could be better planned.

I am going to do my damnedest to get myself back on schedule before I head back to work on Monday.