Crafting Your Ideal Morning Routine: 4 Simple Strategies
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Chapter 1: Understanding Morning Routines
You're likely familiar with the concept of a "morning routine." Perhaps you've overheard your boss discussing Jocko Willink's Instagram, where he shares daily images of his watch at 4:30 AM, showcasing his early starts. You may realize that rising two hours earlier could transform your mornings from a rushed scramble into a more relaxed experience, rather than jumping straight into your first Zoom call. You've attempted various methods like placing your alarm across the room, yet nothing seems effective. What’s going on?
Numerous theories exist regarding habit formation, each accompanied by its own literature. After exploring several, I found that what worked for me was creating a structure that compelled me to follow through. For instance, I wanted to stop mindlessly checking my Medium stats. I implemented a frustrating website blocker that required me to type sixty consecutive words without errors to bypass the restriction. This task was both challenging and tedious, often leading me to either abandon it or avoid it altogether, which ultimately helped me stay aligned with my goals.
The following four strategies to establish your perfect morning routine resemble that website blocker. While they demand some initial effort, once set up, they can simplify your path to achieving your goals.
Section 1.1: Implement an App-Blocking Tool
The most impactful step I've taken to enhance my morning productivity is downloading an app-blocking application that restricts access to distracting apps during the morning hours. On my Google Pixel 7, I use Lock Me Out, while Apple users might consider AppBlock.
Prior to using Lock Me Out, my mornings mirrored those of many others: I would reach for my phone first thing and check it compulsively. Before I knew it, nearly two hours had elapsed. I would then rush to get ready, feeling frazzled.
Despite my efforts to simply “stop wasting time,” such as placing my phone face down or on Do Not Disturb, the allure of infinite scrolling proved too strong.
Once I installed Lock Me Out, my mornings transformed. I still pick up my phone, but most functions are blocked. No texting, googling, or social media distractions are allowed. The cost to end the lock is $5, a deterrent that keeps me from breaking the restriction unnecessarily. Without these distractions, morning journaling became much more appealing.
I transitioned from squandering my mornings to engaging in hours of mindfulness daily, all thanks to a $5 app.
How to Create the PERFECT Morning ROUTINE ☀️ | 20 Ideas for Crafting a CUSTOM Routine for YOU - YouTube
This video explores various ideas to design your ideal morning routine, helping you start your day on a positive note.
Section 1.2: Embrace a Positive Mindset
The prevailing belief in the medical field is that individuals fall into two categories: "morning larks" and "night owls," and that these traits are fixed. However, my experience suggests otherwise.
In my younger years, I identified as a night owl, often waking late and working into the night. However, after moving in with my grandparents, who rose with the sun, I found myself waking earlier and earlier. Over time, I naturally began to wake at 6 AM without needing an alarm.
Embracing this change opened my eyes to the benefits of rising early:
- I witness the sunrise every morning.
- I enjoy ample sunlight throughout the day.
- I allocate two hours each morning to mindfulness, a rare luxury.
- My productivity increased as I approached tasks calmly and methodically.
The cascade of benefits continued: more sunlight exposure and time outdoors have positively influenced my mental health, thereby enhancing my overall well-being.
Though sleep scientists argue that one’s circadian rhythm is unchangeable, my lived experience tells a different story. With the right environment, many of us can shift our sleeping patterns more easily than we think.
If you find yourself struggling to wake up early, consider forming a pact with friends who are also striving for change. Having someone to connect with in the mornings can be motivating.
Chapter 2: Structuring Your Morning Activities
10 Habits to Create a Sustainable & Productive Morning Routine | LIDIAVMERA - YouTube
This video outlines practical habits to establish a morning routine that fosters sustainability and productivity.
Section 2.1: Select Meaningful Morning Activities
Waking up at 6 AM is commendable, but without a clear plan for your morning, you may find yourself feeling uninspired. Consider tracking your habits or making a list of activities to engage in each morning. Potential activities include:
- Brushing your teeth
- Showering
- Journaling
- Meditating
- Writing for thirty minutes
- Practicing yoga or stretching
- Taking a morning walk
- Reviewing your to-do list
- Preparing a healthy breakfast
- Tidying your space
Feel free to select unconventional activities that bring you joy. The key is to identify morning practices that resonate deeply with you, making them essential for your routine.
Section 2.2: Avoid Sleep Aids
For years, I relied on melatonin to aid my sleep, unaware of its potential risks. In the U.S., high doses are available over the counter, while in Europe, lower doses are prescribed due to safety concerns.
Ultimately, I decided to stop taking melatonin after realizing its negative impact on my waking habits. Though I experienced withdrawal symptoms initially, my sleep patterns eventually returned to their natural state.
While sleep aids can be useful for short-term challenges, excessive reliance may lead to more harm than good.
In Summary
Creating a morning routine that suits your lifestyle can be challenging. However, by implementing a few simple strategies, such as using an app-blocker and maintaining consistency, you can simplify the process of achieving your goals. Rather than relying solely on willpower, establishing supportive tools can help you cultivate more productive and enjoyable mornings. These four straightforward steps can guide you in crafting the perfect morning routine tailored to your needs.