I created Living ROI as a passion, to share my experiences and support others who want to live more authentic, joyful and fulfilling lives.
Dear Friends,
A new year is a chance to look at many aspects of our lives. I’ve been noodling on my morning routine. When I start my day early it makes a huge difference. Instead of running to catch up, I’m ahead from the start. However, waking up early and following a disciplined routine takes, well, discipline!
My absolute best weekday mornings are when I:
- Get up at 5:15 am
- Drink a glass of water with freshly squeezed lemon juice (to hydrate)
- Get outside for 6 am yoga, gym class or a walk (depending on the day)
- Meditate for 10 – 15 minutes (I use Headspace and Calm apps)
- Shower and dress
- Eat breakfast
- Take 30 minutes to review my schedule and plan my day
- Start the day working on one of my bigger challenges. As Brian Tracy says, Eat That Frog first thing in the morning.
How often do I do this? Lately, it has been sporadic at best. There have been times when I’ve been consistent for weeks, even months. But I’m okay with not being perfect. Life is a flow, and sometimes the best thing to do is sleep in. What I know now is that I can always get back on the horse—back in the routine—and the routine can, and will, change.
Historically, I used to worry a lot more than I do now. When something went wrong, I thought it would be bigger than it ever ended up being. When I skipped a planned routine, I would judge and berate myself. Now, I’m gentle with myself. The more gently I speak to myself, the more quickly I can get back on track.
I’ve read several books that include morning routines and forming habits in general. Two of my favorites are the Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod and Atomic Habits by James Clear.
Other things I rotate in and out in the mornings are:
- Journaling
- Reading something inspirational
- Writing affirmations
- Visualizing my goals coming to fruition
- Thinking about what I’m grateful for
- Watching the full moon set as the sun rises (magical)
What I try not to do first thing is:
- Check my email
- Read the news
A great morning begins the night before. I set my alarm to start getting ready for bed at 9 pm. Ideally, I’m in bed and asleep by 10 pm or 10:30 pm. It helps that my husband, Colin, likes to go to bed early.
I realize doing a personal morning routine can be a luxury for many! When we had young children at home my focus was on creating a family morning routine to keep things running smoothly. And when I commuted for several years, I had to leave the house by 7 am.
I am grateful to have the chance to do a personal morning routine at this time in my life. My goal for next week is to get consistent with it again, because it feels great.
What makes your mornings shine?
Barbara Fagan-Smith
CEO, ROI Communication
Chief Catalyst, Living ROI
