I’m sure you’ve heard about it before and maybe even have your own routine established. The way you start your day plays a significant role in how your entire day is going to go.
Picture this..remember that time you woke up late because you snoozed 3 times? You jump out of bed, rush to pour a cup of coffee to help wake you up, and make a mess because your cup overflowed while you were checking your emails on your phone with your other hand.
You halfway clean it up, finish getting ready, and head out the door, only to get stuck in the worst traffic ever. And then when you arrive to work, there’s no parking spots at all.
It seems as if every move you make continues to delay the start to your day. You’re rushed, feeling highly anxious, and are now supposed to perform your best.
Wow. You should’ve just stayed in bed today and called in sick right?
We’ve all had those types of mornings at some point in time. There is a way you can help to prevent them.
Establishing a morning routine helps set you up for success. It gives you time to be with yourself. Focus on your day. Do the things you enjoy most. And puts you in a position where you are in control of the day, not the other way around.
I know what you’re saying…I don’t have time..I’ve got to do this and this and that. Or I want to sleep as long as possible because I went to bed late.
Your morning routine can be as long or as short as you want to make it. It’s just important to stick to it. And make it fit within your schedule.
It could be as simple as starting your day with 5 deep breaths before you head out the door. Maybe it’s reading a book for 10 minutes. Or stepping outside to watch the sunrise. Whatever it might be, it’s important to take that time for yourself. To fuel yourself. And to fully prepare yourself for what the day may bring.
Over the last 7-8 years I’ve established a routine that always primes me for the day ahead. Of course I’ve had times when I slip up and don’t do it. But when I do, especially when I’m consistent with it for weeks at a time, I can feel the difference.
I think better. I feel better. And any stress that may come with running two businesses is much better controlled.
In some cases, my morning routine might be the only time I get to myself for the entire day, so I truly cherish the time. I avoid checking my phone for text messages and emails until my routine is complete.
Doing so allows me to walk out my door feeling my best and prepared for what’s next.
Here’s my routine in a nutshell. Feel free to take bits and pieces of what works for you. And remember, don’t worry about how long your routine is. Do what’s best for you!
- I practice gratitude by immediately saying thank you as my feet touch the floor. This gets my mind in the right state.
- I finish drinking the water that I went to bed with to begin hydrating my body. (My goal is to consume 16-24oz before any coffee or tea that morning)
- Of course I make my bed right away. Mom ingrained that in my as a kid. And if you think about it, there’s your first victory of the day!
- I drink another glass of water (or aloe vera juice) mixed with my morning Greens powder. I’m a big fan of Organifi Green Juice. It tastes great and is loaded with tons of great nutrients.
- I love doing some type of mobility work for about 20 minutes. This helps get my blood flowing and loosen me up for the day. Typically I’ll play a podcast or audiobook during this time as it’s a perfect opportunity to also exercise my brain.
- And then I meditate for 10-20 minutes. This allows me to focus on my breath and clear my mind. And really to just be. Meditation is a practice that helps me think more clearly, creatively, and also helps me to connect with my purpose.
- I’m a big fan of journaling as this gives me an opportunity to express my thoughts and ideas. Some days I’ll write about what’s on my mind, or what a perfect day would look like, or maybe what happened the day before. Just the practice of writing is something I enjoy and find very beneficial for myself.
- Just like writing, I love to read. I’ll finish up my morning routine by reading for about 20 minutes in one of the several books I typically am reading at that time. I prefer books on growth, mindfulness, business, and of course fitness and nutrition. And I love to read outside. You can find me on my balcony, taking in some sun and fresh air during this time. (There are a lot of benefits to getting some natural light, some vitamin D, and some connection with Mother Nature early in your day.)
My full morning routine lasts for about 60-90 minutes. And I wake up accordingly so that I can get it all in. I do have days where I practice an abbreviated version and still feel great before heading out the door.
So again, do what’s best for you. It could be 5 minutes or it could be 65 minutes. Find the time to do a couple things that you enjoy. Things that align with your goals and connect to your purpose.
Owning your day starts first thing in the morning. And it’s your choice to do so!
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