"The morning routine is hugely important. I think it's almost a reset button." - Elon Musk.
What do you feel about mornings? Do you wake up and say, “Good Lord, it's morning,” or do you say, “Good morning, Lord?” People have their mantra in the mornings. My question is, is your mantra positive or negative?
Growing up, I hated mornings. I was a night owl, stayed up late, and woke up behaving like Oscar the Grouch from Sesame Street. When I was young, my parents set a strict bedtime, and I found ways to stay up. (I read under the covers, tuned on my TV quietly, sang to myself, and prayed.)
As a young married person, I continued to be a night owl. My husband at the time was not a morning person either. Our mornings could be volatile. Our work schedules caused problems. He worked grave shifts, and I worked days. He would come home from work, and it was my morning, and when I would come home from work, it was his morning. Life was interesting. This issue could have been a part of why we divorced.
A few years ago, I became a morning person. I don’t know what happened, but I did. I now wake up early, usually happy, and I have a morning routine.
What we choose to do in the morning prepares us for our whole day.
Starting a morning routine can be a great way to kickstart your day with productivity and positivity. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to begin a morning routine:
1. Set a Goal: Determine why you want to establish a morning routine. Do you want to boost productivity, improve your health, or enhance your well-being? Having a clear goal will give you routine purpose. I prepare for my day by writing down everything I need to accomplish the night before.
2. Wake Up Early: Try to wake up at the same time each day, preferably early. Consistency in your wake-up time helps regulate your body's internal clock.
3. Hydrate: Start your day by drinking a glass of water. After a night's sleep, your body is dehydrated, and this helps kickstart your metabolism and rehydrate your system.
4. Stretch or Exercise: Engage in some form of physical activity, whether a few minutes of stretching, yoga, or a complete workout. Exercise can boost your energy levels and improve your mood. I don’t like exercise. My goal is to ride my Peloton five days a week this year.
5. Mindfulness or Meditation: Spend a few minutes in quiet reflection, mindfulness, or meditation. This exercise can help reduce stress, increase focus, and set a positive tone for the day. My time of mindfulness or meditation is precious to me. My time with God is the most crucial thing I incorporate into my day. I spend time studying the Bible and praying.
6. Healthy Breakfast: Fuel your body with a nutritious breakfast. To sustain energy, include a mix of protein, complex carbohydrates, and fruits or vegetables. I am working on this one!
7. Plan Your Day: Take a moment to outline your tasks and priorities for the day. A to-do list or schedule can help you stay organized and focused. I have specific goals I want to achieve. Setting my day up the night before keeps me from perseverating on goals and tasks all night!
8. Personal Growth: Dedicate some time to personal development. This step could involve reading, journaling, or listening to motivational content. I find journaling very helpful.
9. Practice Gratitude: Reflect on the things you are grateful for. Expressing gratitude can boost your mood and shift your mindset toward positivity.
10. Get Ready: Shower, get dressed, and groom yourself as if you were going to work or an important event. This step can help you feel more alert and ready for the day.
11. Limit Distractions: During your morning routine, avoid distractions like checking your phone or email until you've completed your routine. These distractions can derail your focus. I am working on this area. I am easily distracted, and when my phone dings or vibrates, I want to stop and see what is on my phone, read the text, or return the call, stopping my morning routine and wasting time.
12. Be Consistent: Stick to your routine consistently, even on weekends. Consistency helps reinforce the habit and makes it easier to maintain.
13. Adjust as Needed: Your morning routine should suit your preferences and needs. If something isn't working, be open to adjusting and experimenting until you find a routine that suits you.
Establishing a morning routine takes time. If you want to start a morning routine, take it one step at a time.
Get a good night’s rest and wake up ready to start the day!!
Have a great week!!
Comments