A Simple Morning Routine for Busy Business Owners
As a busy business owner, your mornings can set the tone for the entire day. They can be crazy and feel suffocating or they can be slow and mindful, either way, the tone will be set. A structured morning routine not only enhances productivity but also improves your overall mood. It doesn’t have to be a long drawn-out process either. It can be or look however fits you and your lifestyle. There are never any “shoulds” and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. This routine and the ideas here are just that…ideas. You get to do exactly what you want and choose what makes you feel best and most connected to yourself in the morning. Remember that whole fill your cup first analogy, yep, that is what I’m saying. Here's how you can start your day right (all ideas to take or leave, mix or match, love or hate):
Wake Up Early
Waking up early gives you a quiet moment to yourself before the chaos begins. It doesn’t have to be anything crazy like some people out there I see at 4am! I mean WTF people? Although it may be difficult some days, it’s your time to prepare mentally and physically for the day ahead. Research shows that early risers often enjoy better mental health and productivity. To become an early riser, try setting a consistent bedtime and using an alarm clock placed across the room. This way, you'll have to get out of bed to turn it off, making it easier to wake up. Gradually adjust your bedtime and wake-up time to ease into this new habit. And if you don’t do it and end up sleeping in, then your body probably needs that extra time and to have grace and compassion with yourself instead of feeling defeated. You can try again tomorrow.
Hydrate Immediately
Kickstart your metabolism and mental clarity by drinking water as soon as you wake up. After hours of sleep, your body is naturally dehydrated. Drinking a glass of water first thing in the morning helps rehydrate you, improves digestion, and can even enhance your skin's appearance. Adding a slice of lemon can boost the flavor and provide a dose of vitamin C or a cucumber if you are feeling extra adventurous. Keep a glass of water or a water bottle (that’s what I like to do) by your bed to help make it a habit to drink a full glass before your morning coffee.
Mindfulness and Meditation
Taking 5-10 minutes for mindfulness or meditation can reduce stress and improve focus. Start your day with a calm and centered mind by practicing simple breathing exercises, mindfulness, or meditation. This practice helps clear mental clutter, promotes emotional stability, and enhances concentration. Many apps like Headspace or Calm offer guided meditation sessions, perfect for beginners. I like to read devotional or inspiring messages. Here is one that I like.
“Morning Blessing: May you become an expert at caring for your soul. May you know when to tuck yourself under the shadow of God's (divine wisdoms) wing and when to run to the battle line, knowing She'll fight for you. May you know when to rest and know when to work. May you refuse worry and embrace faith. May you become tenacious when it comes to the promises of the Divine and tender when you think about Her love for you. May you guard against toxic thoughts, attitudes, and mindsets that only weaken you. May you instead, fill your thoughts with all that's lovely, praiseworthy, and true. In the days ahead, may your intimate walk with the Universe inform your decisions, fuel your prayers, and magnify your love. May it fill you up to overflowing from one moment to the next. Have a wise and winsome day today!”
Even a few minutes of slow focused breathing can help calm your nervous system and set you up for a more peaceful morning. Going right into doing and all the twirling thoughts in your head can lead to a very different tone than just taking 5 minutes of breathing and inspiration.
Physical Activity
Physical activity, even a short workout, can boost your energy and mood. Engaging in morning exercise increases blood flow and endorphin levels, which enhances your overall sense of well-being. Consider stretching, yoga, or a brisk walk even to get your blood flowing and your mind sharp. If time permits, a quick 20-30 minute workout can significantly impact your physical health and mental clarity. I sometimes choose to do my workout mid-day to break up my desk time and get my mood hijacked for the second part of the day when I usually feel more sluggish. Oh, and one other legit idea…dance! Crank your favorite tunes (am I showing my age by saying this?) and shake it off baby. This is my go to when I feel the antsy pantsy coming my way. Just move.
Healthy Breakfast
A nutritious breakfast fuels your body and brain, setting you up for a productive day. Breakfast kick starts your metabolism and provides the necessary nutrients to maintain energy levels and concentration throughout the morning. Opt for quick and healthy options like smoothies packed with fruits and greens, oatmeal topped with nuts and berries, or avocado toast with a sprinkle of chia seeds. These meals are not only nutritious but also quick to prepare, perfect for busy mornings.
Plan Your Day
Reduce stress by organizing your tasks and setting priorities. Planning your day in the morning ensures you stay focused and productive. Use a planner or a digital app (Google Calendar is easy and a great resource since you may already have it) to outline your daily tasks, appointments, and goals. Break your tasks into manageable chunks and prioritize them based on importance and urgency. This practice helps you avoid feeling overwhelmed and keeps you on track throughout the day. Reviewing your schedule each morning can also provide a sense of control and readiness. Things may come up that cannot be avoided and that’s okay. These tasks can roll over to the next day if needed.
Positive Affirmations
Start your day with positivity by reciting affirmations. Positive affirmations are statements that help you overcome negative thoughts and build self-confidence. This boosts your confidence and sets a positive tone for the day. Try affirmations like, "I am capable of achieving my goals," or "Today, I will be productive and focused." Write them down and repeat them each morning. Over time, this practice can significantly impact your mindset and overall outlook.
By creating your unique morning routine, you’ll find yourself more energized, focused, and ready to tackle the challenges of the day. Each component of this routine plays a crucial role in setting a positive and productive tone for your day. Customize this routine to fit your lifestyle and stick with it for consistent results. Remember, the goal is to create a morning routine that works for you, so feel free to adjust what feels best for you. Now kick some butt and make shit happen.
Share your experiences or additional tips in the comments below. Let's elevate our mornings together!
