Before Island Life: Breaking Free from Routine Crutches

Before living on the island, I was like many of you—caught in the belief that my productivity, creativity, and even happiness depended on certain routines. A perfect morning ritual, my favorite coffee, the right playlist, or a meticulously planned to-do list... these felt like the keys to entering a flow state. But here’s the hard truth I had to learn: those routines were not empowering me; they were owning me.

When I transitioned to island life, everything changed. The comforts and rituals I once clung to became luxuries I could no longer count on. It felt disorienting at first, but what I learned transformed not only the way I worked but the way I lived. Here’s my journey, and how you can find freedom and strength from within:

1. Anything Works with Discipline

On the island, where simplicity reigns and resources can be scarce, I had no choice but to adapt. One day, I couldn’t get coffee because the beans hadn’t arrived on the supply boat. Another time, a storm knocked out power for days, leaving me to work without my go-to playlist or devices. Yet, I realized something powerful: my ability to thrive came from my discipline, not my environment.

I stopped letting circumstances dictate my performance. Instead of relying on the “perfect setup,” I made my mindset my anchor. Whether I had a structured day or a free-flowing one, whether conditions were ideal or chaotic, I showed up and did the work.

Takeaway: Discipline is a skill, not a condition. Build the muscle of showing up and giving your best effort no matter the situation.

2. There’s No One-Size-Fits-All Routine

We live in a world full of advice: “Wake up at 5 a.m.,” “Journal every morning,” “Meditate before work.” While these practices can be helpful, I learned that they are only tools—not universal truths.

On the island, my “routine” became fluid and intuitive. Some days I started with a swim at sunrise; other days, I spent the morning cooking or sitting quietly in reflection. What mattered wasn’t the specific actions but the intention behind them.

Takeaway: Don’t force a routine that doesn’t feel natural. Experiment with different practices until you find what aligns with your energy, goals, and personality. And don’t be afraid to change things up when needed. Flexibility is a strength.

3. Break Free from Crutches

The biggest lesson came when I realized that my routines had become crutches. I believed I needed my coffee, music, or structured plan to feel “ready.” When I didn’t have them, I felt unmoored, unproductive, or even anxious.

But the island stripped away those crutches, forcing me to rely on something deeper: my own inner strength and adaptability. I began to trust myself more, knowing that I could create, work, or simply be without needing external props.

Takeaway: Ask yourself, “What do I think I need to succeed?” Then challenge that belief. Start doing things differently, intentionally removing one “crutch” at a time. This will build resilience and remind you that your true power comes from within.

Final Wisdom: It’s About Flow, Not Perfection

Island life taught me that true flow doesn’t come from perfect routines or ideal circumstances—it comes from presence. When you let go of rigid expectations and lean into what the moment offers, you free yourself from unnecessary pressure. You become adaptable, resilient, and attuned to your natural rhythm.

So, here’s my challenge to you:

• Let go of one routine you’ve been clinging to.
• Experiment with something new, even if it feels uncomfortable.
• Trust yourself to thrive without external “rules.”

Remember, you are the source of your success. The tools and routines are just that—tools. Your strength, creativity, and flow are already within you. 🌊

With island vibes and endless gratitude,

Lucas Islander