Whether you're a night owl or a morning person we all need to find easy ways to start our morning the best possible way, ready to start the day on the right foot (and not wake up on the wrong side of the bed).
Some of us may have a morning cuppa, a scroll down the feed or even a morning run (I’m impressed) or pack lunches for the kids, either way we all have our ways… so the question we’ve got to ask ourselves is can I improve my morning routine?
While there probably isn’t a golden formula for everyone, there are still findings, inspiration and research that has gone into a better way to start your morning, so here goes.
- PURPOSE
Supported by the ‘strength model’, which is based around self control, the method advices people to start the day with something meaningful and significant, aka a task to help set the tone for the day.
Research has revealed the relationship between ego depletion on self control task performance. All of which can negatively impact you physiologically and psychologically, this included perceived difficulty, negative affect, subjective fatigue, and blood glucose levels.
Analyses summarised that the longer the day goes on, the more fatigue your self-control experiences. Thus, the more significant it is to make those early house count.
2. MAINTAIN A FIXED BEDTIME & WAKING TIME
You’ve probably heard it many a time, but consistency really is key when it comes to nailing a morning routine. If you can ensure you are going to bed and waking up the same time as often as possible (especially mid-week). Not only will this set you up for a better day ahead, it can also provide more restful sleep at night.
This is because of your internal clock or circadian rhythm both of which impact the amount of sleepiness and wakefulness we experience during the day.
3. LISTS
Try and do this the old school way, pen and paper there really isn’t anything better than crossing off that list once your completed it (instant gratification at its finest)!
- At the end of the day, write down the tasks you need to complete tomorrow, whether that be work actions or home life tasks.
- Look at the list when you start the next day, familiarise yourself, prioritise and dictate when you’d like to have it done by that day.
- End your day by creating a new list for tomorrow.
Benefits Of Having A Morning Routine:
- Allows for better time management through-out the day
- Anticipating what lies ahead, being able to adapt quickly
- You are in-control and it will centre you as you continue to navigate the day ahead
- Feeling more productive and motivated
- Building healthy habits long-term
My Morning Routine Ideas:
- Set an alarm to wake up and an alarm to go to sleep
- Track your habits to better understand yourself
- Minimise your screen time in the morning
- Write out your daily intentions
- Hydration is key
- Make your bed every morning
Book Recommendations: