Theories to consider CHIME

How can we relate CHIME to developing a routine?

Asking yourself the following questions (relating to the CHIME factors) can help your routine to be rewarding and meaningful for you. These questions involve thinking more about what you want to change, why you want to change it and how you can change it.

You can find out more about the CHIME factors in our course Recovery, the New Me. Find it in the courses section of this website.

Connectedness – Do you have any connections that could help you to create and implement your routine? Are there any connections that you would like to incorporate into your routine? For example, is there anyone that you would like to see more or less of? 

Hope – What in your current routine gives you hope? What do you hope to do and how would having a good routine make you feel? 

Identity – How do you see yourself? How will your identity change when you start this routine? How will it stay the same? How can you make sure that your routine benefits you as an individual?

Meaning – What is meaningful in your current routine? How can you make your routine more meaningful for you? What would this change mean to you?

Empowerment – What makes you feel empowered? What change do you feel empowered to make? What will support you to achieve your goals and how will you overcome any challenges that you face?

'I often lack motivation to continue my routines, especially when my mood is low. At these times, I find it helpful to remind myself of how beneficial having a routine is and the positive effects that it has on my life. '

Personal experience

What would stay the same?

When forming new routines and habits, we can become fixated on the idea that things need to change. However, the reality is that it is likely that some of the things in your day will stay the same and that is perfectly ok. You may already have positive habits that you wish to keep. It is therefore important not to overwhelm yourself with new ideas and remember that familiarity can also be beneficial. What is important for you to keep and why? Focusing on the why can really help to regain focus and motivation.