Life has a funny way of becoming systematic after awhile. We often stumble through the motions of our day with the same routine. Maybe your daily routine includes getting the kids ready and off to school, doing your best at work and coming home to take care of the household chores. And while those are all good to get done, when we allow ourselves to fall into a daily routine we often lose sight of the unexpected. Often it could mean a monotonous, mundane daily grind that threatens our spontaneity. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Instead, embrace the unexpected to make somebody else’s day. It will remind them that you don’t always have to do things the way you’ve been doing them. These examples will help you break your normal schedule and have you helping others while finding a new routine.

The Morning Routine
Maybe you go to the same coffee shop every morning to get your caffeine fix. No matter what your routine, take time to think about the people serving you. If you’ve got a little extra cash to spend that week, why not give it to the barista who knows your name and has your order waiting every morning? The extra tip will be completely unexpected and you’ll feel good knowing that you were able to make someone’s day. You never know what the little extra cash could mean for that barista.

The Work Routine
Everyday you “clock in”, do the usual tasks that need to be completed and “clock out”. But after awhile, it can become more of a habit than your best effort. Take some time to remind yourself and others why you love working at your job and why you appreciate your coworkers. Dole out compliments when you notice someone going above and beyond in the workplace. They’ve been working hard, and they’ll be thankful that somebody noticed and appreciated them. Make hand-written cards for your coworkers that tell them why you appreciate working with them. They’ll appreciate the fact that you notice each of their contributions, and it will create a more cohesive work environment.

The Home Routine
At home, there are still plenty of opportunities to break up your normal routine and help others in the process. Instead of doing your usual chores, take on either your partner’s chores or even your kids’ chores. They’ll be grateful that you decided to pick up the extra work for them, and it will enable them to have a little more free time. You could also lend a hand to your neighborhood or community to change up your schedule. Try taking responsibility for a project that will benefit your community. Being in charge of a project will help you feel the effects of making a difference in the lives of those who live around you.