Build Your Morning Routine
Mornings tend to be when I am the most open,
so I wanted to take advantage of that feeling
and dedicate time to me.
Mornings tend to be when I feel the most open and vulnerable—the most myself. A few months ago, I realized that I needed to encourage this sense of openness. So, I developed a daily morning ritual based on habits that are important to me, like meditation and a decent breakfast. For others, it might be more important to make time for writing, art, exercise and other personal pursuits.
While the fundamentals of a morning routine differ from person to person, the beauty of the ritual is the time and commitment you give to yourself and yourself alone.
Here are some super simple steps to build your own morning routine!
Clearly Define Your Conviction - Take a moment to write down 3 to 4 or more reasons why you want a dedicated morning routine in the first place.
Pick Your Habit(s) - Start with one at first, and then you can slowly habit-stack to up the commitment.
Prepare Your Tools - Having your resources ready beforehand, like your journal or running shoes, for example, will make actioning your routine easier.
Create Micro-Habit Options - Making mini versions of your current routines make them easier to execute for days when you're tired, and have no motivation or time.
Set Sleep & Wake-Up Windows - Allow yourself to rest and give yourself the time to do your routine.
Repeat. Repeat. Repeat. - There is progress in repetition. Try to lean into the daily routine for as much time as possible, even if it's just a 5 min meditative practice.
Enjoy It - Find joy in your routine. There needs to be play, pleasure and nourishment. If the routine isn't feeding you, then maybe it's time for a change.
Let It Evolve - As you change, your habits will as well. Allow the routine to develop alongside you.
Once you've developed a flow to your mornings, start to recognize how you feel.
Because I began every morning with intention, I'd feel a sense of accomplishment and buzzed to take on the rest of the day. And if I happened to skip the routine, I’d feel off balance, and the whole day was pretty much written off.
It’s been about 6 months since I’ve made an effort to keep my morning routine, and when it’s been good, the change in my life has been a dramatic one. For example, I find it easier to wake up on time because I'm getting up to do what I want before being rushed into my responsibilities of that day. There is a joy in the process and it’s fundamentally helped me become a happier person!
So, go ahead and try creating your simple routine.