See Results and Unlock Success with Your Morning Routine

Why a Morning Routine

As the co-host of a morning radio show I know how difficult getting ready to start your day can be. When my alarm goes off at 4:30am what happens within the following half hour is going to determine how the rest of the day goes. If I have a solid routine set the tone for the day, and it will help focus more on my responsibilities that day. A good routine isn't about when or what you do when you wake up. It's about why you do what you do when you wake up!

Prepare

Your routine isn't going to work if you don't start the night before. You should plan out what you are going to wear. If you work at a place that requires a uniform that's Great! Have your breakfast pre-cooked, or ready to cook as soon as you wake up in the morning. Stop being cheap with the coffee! Purchase yourself a nice coffee maker with an auto function on it so your coffee is ready to go when you are!

Exercise your mind and your body

Just like old pickup truck, you will run better through the day if you warm up first thing in the morning. You don't need to read a whole newspaper or run five miles, but some simple activities can really jumpstart your mind and body. There was a time that I thought meditation was just for hippies and hot chicks in yoga pants. It turns out that meditation is very beneficial. A 5-minute session can help you calm down, and it can help you focus on whatever obstacles you might be facing. Journaling can also help with your mental activities. I do a practice called "Morning Pages". I start my day by writing three pages of stream of consciousness thoughts. Once you've done some mental maintenance be sure to do a little stretching and light calisthenics. By doing a few simple mental and physical exercises you can release tension, increase energy, and prepare yourself for anything coming your way!

First Things First

You have to prioritize you morning routine tasks. Whatever is most important or challenging do that first. For me, it is getting out of the bed. I love the snooze button! If you have kids your first priority may be getting them dressed and out the door for school. If you're single your most important and challenging task is figuring out how to get that person you met at the bar the night before out of your place. Regardless of what your priorities actually are by getting them done it sets the tone for your day. If you are successful early on that will motivate you to continue being productive during the rest of the day.

Now you're ready

I've taught you everything you could ever need to know regarding morning routines. You can now start your days confidently knowing that you are a routine master. However, to avoid jumping into the deep end too soon and getting in over your head I suggest toying with your priorities. See what order works best to help you be most efficient int he morning. You can always just do what I did to know what would work best. I asked my wife what she thought I should do.