Creating rituals that help you practice new ways of being is a key step toward thriving. These help your body and mind minimize shock as you shift into a new life rhythm. And like any exercise, regular practice is key.

When I was shifting from college administration into more activist facilitation, I got involved in Occupy Philadelphia as a way to have a consistent facilitation practice. People at my university job saw that I carried a renewed passion for life back into my paid work, so when I asked for time off to continue facilitating, someone in Human Resources found the resources for me to get paid for these volunteer hours.

As you practice new rituals, their effect will ripple through your life. People reactions may feel supportive or confusing, but remember to stay focused, this is about you bringing more joy into your daily life. This can feel challenging, but as time passes it will become more familiar.

When I began facilitating more, I needed to start my workday earlier so I could commute home in time for community meetings. I hated waking up early, and my partner did not understand why I would be awake before the sun. But sticking with this new ritual gave me time to decenter my current job from my mind. Instead my other passions became a bigger focus, and I was able to carry that joy into my job.

When you try out a new ritual, chose something that you can add to your day that isn’t too jarring for your system. It could be a daily mantra or volunteering at an organization that ignites your inner fire. The key is, do something that you can keep up.