The distinction between routine, habit, and ritual lies in the emotional depth and personal significance attached to an action. A routine is a regularly repeated behavior like brushing teeth twice daily. Habits are actions done in a particular way with personal preferences, even though the goal can be achieved differently. Rituals, at the emotional extreme, involve specific gestures or words that hold deeper meanings and evoke emotions. Although all involve repetitive actions, the emotional resonance distinguishes between routine, habit, and ritual.