A productive morning routine will set the tone for your entire day and help drive real results when it comes to your goals. If you’re struggling with where to start don’t worry, we got you!
This post shares 4 Steps to a Productive Morning Routine
I know that you have a lot to juggle, and I’m right there with you. Between my full-time work as an independent event producer, blogging on the side, and maintaining a personal life balance is key. I attribute much of my sanity to the routines I have in place. As overwhelming as it may seem to add ANOTHER thing to your day, a good routine will actually create space and ease.
What is a Morning Routine?
A morning routine is a ritual or list of activities that you do each morning. The routine creates some form of structure, stability, or consistency in your mornings. Everyone’s morning routine looks different, and your structure will be dependent on a combination of two things; your lifestyle and goals.
Do you have full-time work or are you a business owner? Are you a student or a parent? Are you looking for a morning routine that brings peace and stillness, or are you trying to be productive? These are all questions you should consider before crafting your morning routine.
4 Steps to a Productive Morning Routine
1. Unplug and Motivate
If the first thing you do when you open your eyes is reach for your phone, it’s time to unplug sis. Studies show that checking your phone first thing in the morning is linked to anxiety and stress. Overloading our brains with to-do lists, calendar meetings, and social comparisons as soon as we wake up takes up valuable brain space and increases our risk of decision fatigue. We want to prep our brains for the day with screen-free time and inspiration. Try reading a chapter of a motivational book or playing an episode of an inspirational podcast. I love waking up early and watching the sunrise with a hot mug of tea and a good book.
For a list of inspiring podcasts that are great for your mindset check out our blog post “Top 9 Mindset Podcasts for Women”.
2. Move Your Body
This isn’t a groundbreaking revelation but movement will help with productivity. Exercise is linked to increased focus, improved mood, decreased anxiety, and better sleep. When we move our bodies and increase our heart rate we boost our endorphins and create sustainable energy. We’re also increasing blood flow to the brain which allows for sharper focus and awareness. The best part about movement is that you can choose whatever type is accessible and enjoyable for you.
Simple ways you can move your body:
- Do a 10-minute yoga video off YouTube.
- Go for a 15-minute walk outdoors.
- Try a 10-minute run on a treadmill with a 2-minute sprint.
- Do three sets of 10 jumping jacks.
- Get a jump rope or small indoor trampoline for playful movement.
- Get a walking pad for your standing desk.
3. Fuel and Energize
Start your day with a high protein energizing breakfast, bonus points if you meal prep to avoid decision fatigue. Having a protein and savory-based breakfast will balance your blood sugar and prevent that mid-afternoon energy crash. Instead of a fruit smoothie or pancakes, have a veggie-based protein shake, eggs, or Greek yogurt. You’ll notice a major difference in your energy levels throughout the day and will be far more productive.
Always consult a doctor if you’re struggling with major energy depletion or are unsure about your diet.
4. Set your Big 3
Stop packing your to-do list with a never-ending list of tasks, you’re setting yourself up for failure. When you try and fit too much in a day you end up feeling guilt and shame when you can’t complete the tasks. Instead, pick three tasks that will move the needle toward your goal. Prioritize whatever tasks will leave you feeling satisfied and bring you closer to your vision. When you complete these tasks not only will you see real progress but you will build momentum and motivation. Anything you complete outside of these three tasks can be considered a bonus.
Habits to Support Your Routine
Your daily habits are what snowball and drive your results. If you want to create larger results you have to build better habits. To learn more about good vs bad habits and how to build habits for success check out our blog post “12 Daily Habits for Success that Will Change Your Life”.
Examples of Supportive Habits:
- Waking up at the same time consistently.
- Meal prepping breakfast and/or lunches weekly.
- Implementing 20 minutes of accessible movement.
- Practice gratitude (link blog)
- Journal for 10-15 minutes.
- Read a chapter of a personal development book.
- Take multivitamins or supplements.
- Listen to an inspirational podcast episode.
- Make your bed.
- Reach out to 3 connections (friends, colleagues, potential clients).
This post shared 4 Steps a Productive Morning Routine
Thank you for reading Sipping on Gratitude, the blog where we spill the tea on all things personal growth and development. If you liked this post then you should also check out:
