You are a morning person? Beep! Beep! Beep! Your alarm blares its shrill reminder. Panic sets in as you realize you’ve overslept and repeatedly snoozed the alarm. Now, the only thing left is to summon the strength to emerge from your cozy cocoon.
Each morning feels like déjà vu. Despite your best intentions to rise early, get the kids ready for school, enjoy a leisurely breakfast, and organize your to-do list, time always seems to slip through your grasp. Does this sound familiar?
This scenario is an all-too-common experience for many struggling with chaotic mornings. No wonder we find it hard to bid adieu to our beds! But fear not; there’s a solution.
1.Do Your Squats into Your Morning Routine
You’re already aware that some morning exercise can infuse you with energy and alertness for the day ahead. However, instead of waking up an hour earlier to squeeze in a workout, consider blending exercise with a habit you’ve already mastered—brushing your teeth.
Morning tooth brushing is a routine most of us have down pat, so multitasking should come naturally. According to Dr. John J. Ratey, author of “Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain,” engaging the large muscle groups in your thighs and buttocks promotes blood flow to the brain.
As you prepare for the day, engaging in light exercise can kickstart your creativity before you leave your home. Air squats, in particular, are easy to perform while brushing your teeth. Just ensure you do them correctly to reap their benefits without risking injury.
2.Set Alarms for Every Task
This tip, while straightforward, can work wonders. Do you want to avoid getting lost in one activity for too long during your morning routine? Most of us are. Sometimes, you spend too much time on your hairstyle or deliberating over your outfit (pro tip: plan your next day’s attire before bedtime!). Or you may be unable to accomplish anything at all.
Harness the power of your phone to prompt you when it’s time to transition to the next task. This way, you can ensure that you leave for work having completed everything in the perfect amount of time.
3.Embrace Voice Notes as Your New Companion
Undoubtedly, some of our finest ideas strike us while we’re in the shower or bath. So why not make the most of that relaxed state of mind to organize your to-do list for the day mentally?
Before stepping into the shower, activate your favorite voice note app and verbally list everything that needs to be accomplished that day as it pops into your thoughts. Later, you can listen to the recording and jot down the more elusive tasks (some apps can even do this for you!).
4. Reinforce Your Memory with a Mantra
If you need to remember essentials like keys, wallet, or phone in the morning, consider crafting a mantra you can audibly recite before heading out the door.
As you slip on your shoes, verbalize your reminder to yourself: “Phone! Wallet! Keys!” Repeat this mantra while gathering these items.
Don’t fret about sounding slightly peculiar; you’re the sole audience! Additionally, storing these items in a designated tray or on a hook near your exit point for easy access as you leave your home is a good idea.
5.Transform Your Commute into a Mental Workout
If you’ve grown tired of gazing at your own reflection in the train or bus window (or becoming well-acquainted with a stranger’s armpit, especially when the Wi-Fi is out), why not seize those precious minutes of solitude away from Twitter, emails, and texts?
While many of us enjoy listening to music, which can be a brain booster for some, you can also utilize this time to learn something new, whether related to your existing interests or something entirely unconventional. (Ever pondered the history of white wedding dresses? There’s a podcast about it!)
Consider downloading captivating podcasts or audiobooks you’ve been eager to explore but never find the time for. This approach can make your daily commute to and from work feel like a productive adventure. And for those who drive to work, this tactic is equally effective.
Speaking of podcasts, here are some of my favorites that never fail to inspire me for the day ahead: “The School of Greatness with Lewis Howes” and “How I Built This.” Leave your home.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the foundation of a productive and inspiring day lies in creating a positive morning routine. While the ideal scenario involves dedicating time for exercise, seeking inspiration, and organizing your day before the world (or your children) awakens, maximizing your current routine can significantly improve your daily life.