Just about anyone would say that they would rather sleep in than set an early alarm clock. However, successful professionals often accomplish more before 10 am than their late-rising counterparts accomplish all day. This early morning success translates into great time management throughout the workday, leading to advances in both the personal and professional realms.
10 Ways to Improve Your Morning Routine
While not everyone is a morning person, everyone can establish a morning routine that sets them up for a successful day. Here are 10 ways that you can improve your morning routine:
1. Wake Up Early
Some people require less sleep than others. For these people, waking up at 5 am is not a challenge. While the rest of us appreciate the beauty of a sunrise, the reality of getting out of bed at an early hour is challenging. If you are struggling to wake up with your alarm clock, force yourself to go to bed earlier. Once this becomes an established habit, your body will adjust to your new schedule and you will wake up refreshed, despite the early hour on your alarm clock.
2. Work Out
Not only is exercising great for pumping blood throughout the body, but it also provides fuel for your muscles and improves brain functionality. While it may be hard to fit in a lengthy workout in the morning, a short 30-minute workout will do the trick. Anything that gets your body moving early in the day will help you wake up and feel excited about what awaits you.
3. Fresh Air
Nothing beats a breath of fresh air in the morning. Whether you decide to take a quick morning walk around the block, enjoy your coffee on the patio, or simply stick your head out the window to check the air, fresh air will start your day off on the right foot.
4. List Your Priorities
A great way to set yourself up for a successful day is to make a to-do list of your priorities. Begin by writing down the most important task, leaving the least urgent tasks for the end of your day. By listing your priorities in this way, you will be able to focus on the tasks that truly matter. Additionally, writing down your daily to-do list will help you remember everything that you hope to accomplish.
5. Visualize
Visualize your successful day. Think through each task you hope to accomplish and what steps you will take. Visualizing your success will allow you to approach each task with confidence.
6. Goals
Goals provide you with something to strive for, they help you refocus your efforts and keep your eyes on the prize. Every morning, go over your goals, both short-term and long-term. Maintaining a focus on your goals will allow you to work in a way that brings you closer to success in those areas.
7. Eat Breakfast
When you wake up late, breakfast is often the first thing to go. However, many experts believe that breakfast is the most important meal of the day! A healthy breakfast provides you with the fuel and energy you need to propel you through the rest of your day. Even something as small as a granola bar, yogurt, or some fruit will help you wake up.
8. Meditate
Each morning, take a few minutes to just sit and reflect. This can be done while you eat breakfast, while you wait for your coffee to brew, or even following your workout. Taking a few moments of silence to reflect on your life and the day ahead can be a great way to eliminate frustrations from the previous day and open your mind to the day ahead.
9. Smile
Smiling can provide a great boost to your mood. Greet each person you see with a smile. This will not only brighten your day but also the days of the people around you. Happy people are always more enjoyable to be around (and easier to work with)!
10. Declutter
The best way to start your workday is with a clean workspace. Clutter can make it difficult to function or focus on the task at hand. Once you arrive at work, take a moment to make sure that your desk is orderly and that you have everything you need.
LUXA Enterprises specializes in HRM services, outsource accounting, and payroll services. We match up with ideal candidates for services by allowing small to midsize businesses to increase focus on their growth through outsourcing. If you want to know how we can help you, contact us today!