Want to get out of your normal routine? If you are anything like me, and most people I know, you want an occasional break from routine. In fact, you probably NEED a break.

A week or two on the Dominican coast would be nice, but you don’t have to go that far to develop perspective, feel rested, and restore your sense of energy, focus, creativity, innovation and service. You can take a break right now. (Warning: you will think this is silly nonsense – just try it)

First, relax. Close your eyes. Get used to the darkness behind our eyelids. Take deep breaths, in through the nose, out through your mouth. Relax the muscles in your face. Relax your neck. Relax your shoulders, then your arms, your fingers. Relax your legs and feet, placing them flat on the ground in front of you. Relax. Just relax.

When was the last time you relaxed like this? Brief relaxation routines are a great way to break from routine almost time of day.

How fast do you normally drive across town? Try driving at least 5 miles slower, or even 5 miles slower than the posted speed limit, as long as it is safe.

Take a different route for trips and errand-runs you make often. Take the long way, the scenic say, the circuitous way.

Get a box of crayons. Smell them. Choose your favorite color. Write a quick note to someone, inspired by the crayon, and mail it or give it to them next time you see the person.

Make a list of your dreams. I have blogged on this activity in the past (just search “dreams”). Make a list of at least 100 things you dream of having, doing, becoming.

Take one of your dreams that seems just beyond your reach and consider, “Why do I want it? What would be the consequence of just letting it go?” If your answer to the latter is at all painful, that’s a good sign you want it! Now make a list of all the reasons (obstacles) you have not achieved this dream, or what might get in the way of achieving your dream. Next, think of some possible solutions to each obstacle you listed. Are there solutions you could implement for each? Then take action. Read The Incredible Power of Goal Achievement or the related Prequel for examples of what can happen from listing your dreams.

Tomorrow, set a goal to experience Five Positive Recordable Interactions with other people. In other words, these must be positive interpersonal experiences that stand out – that break from routine. You must experience at least five. The neat thing here is that, if it gets late in the day and you are running behind, you can always initiate an interaction yourself! I love doing this and have gotten to know some people I would never have met otherwise…those were truly memorable moments.

These are just a few simple ideas that can help you break from routine and energize your creativity. For more on developing new perspective, read What You See is What You Get.