Many of us try to get more out of our days by optimizing our routines. Especially in the morning and before bed, we create time blocks to exercise, cook, practice hobbies, get a jump on work, unwind, or spend time with our loved ones. 

But sometimes our fine-tuned routines can start to feel too much ... like routines. If moving through your daily to-do list isn't as fulfilling as it used to be, here are five reasons why adding a new activity into the mix could improve your Return on Life. 

1. Stretch your mind. 

According to researchers at Columbia University, learning new things can help brain health and adaptability. Learning also improves memory and focuses our attention. If you're learning something with a physical component, such as playing an instrument or sport, you'll be strengthening your hand-eye coordination and small motor skills as well. And according to Harvard Medical School, learning stimulates and maintains brain cells, which can help to keep your mind sharp as you age and prevent diseases like dementia. 

2. Build your body. 

In addition to strengthening connections between your brain and the rest of your body, the combination of cognitive and physical learning could help you break through a fitness plateau. A physical activity that's new to you will also be new to all the muscle groups you've been neglecting. Mixing up your workouts and sports routines can also improve your overall coordination, balance, and muscle mass, all of which can help to prevent slip-and-falls and other household accidents as we age. And if you enjoy a new sport or exercise, you’re going to do it longer than your old workout, which means your heart will be pumping longer and your body will be burning more calories. 

3. Strengthen your emotional well-being.

When we do the same things over and over again -- even things that we love -- we can begin to take our skills and capabilities for granted. The golfer who learns how to drive the ball a few yards farther might not feel as satisfied as he thought he'd be when he signed up for lessons. But trying tennis for the first time or learning a new language provides challenges that encourage study, determination, trial-and-error, focus, and growth. The pride you'll feel as you make progress in your new pursuit might encourage more trips outside of your comfort zone, more accomplishments, and more fulfillment.  

4. Improve your relationships. 

New activities can also be an opportunity to spend more time with the people you love. Instead of lounging around the house for another weekend, round up the family for a day trip and try hiking or cycling. On your next date night, skip the usual spots and take your spouse to a new restaurant. Or stop by the local farmers market and shop for a meal that the two of you can learn to cook together. If your kids are finally old enough to join you for a round of golf, teaching them the game could add a rewarding new dimension to an activity you already love. Experiment, explore, and you might find a new activity that your family will bond over for years to come. 

5. Maximize your impact. 

Study after study has found that buying stuff just doesn't make us happier. But when we spend money on new experiences, we learn, grow, and create memories that never break down or go out of style. 

Life-Centered Financial Planning can transform how you think about the real value of your God given resources and help you bridge the gap between your God given means and God given meaning.  This can help you achieve a life filled with joy and maximum impact regardless of circumstances.