5 Things that Will Enhance Your Morning Routine

If you’re anything like me, having a routine is essential to maintaining a smooth and productive day. There was a time when my mornings were completely unpredictable. I didn’t have a set routine; In fact, I actively resisted the idea. For some reason, I thrived on the chaos of the daily hustle.

I’d wake up, scramble to find something to wear, iron it, and throw it on before heading to the kitchen to prepare my lunch. I remember trying to brush my teeth and iron my clothes simultaneously. Needless to say, my commute was always a mess. I’d hit random coffee drive-thrus, hoping there wouldn’t be a long line, which often ruined my mood because my time window was so tight. I quickly realized this wasn’t sustainable and I needed to make a change.

Recognizing the need for change wasn’t enough; I had to act. It required breaking old habits and adopting a more proactive mindset. I shifted my focus from simply surviving the day to building routines that set me up for long-term success. In this "Sunday Night Reignite," I’ll share five personal strategies that transformed my mornings and helped me operate at a higher level in all areas of my life.

Currently, I lead a team of safety professionals, industrial hygienists, and emergency managers. I also teach two subjects at two higher education institutions. As a husband and father of four, balance is critical. These changes have helped me find that balance.

1. Set Up Success the Night Before: I’ve discovered that the way I end my evening has a huge impact on how smoothly the next day begins. Taking just a few minutes to lay out my clothes and pack my bag allows me to start the morning with ease. Sticking to a consistent bedtime has been a game changer. Waking up with more energy has made all the difference in tackling the day ahead.

2. Get Moving Right Away: I used to be a chronic snooze button hitter, but I found that it only made me feel groggy and less focused. Now, I get up as soon as my alarm goes off and make time for a quick workout. A 30-minute cardio session wakes me up more effectively than coffee ever did. I’ve noticed that I’m more productive and energized after starting the day with movement.

3. Empower Yourself with Positive Self-Talk: At first, talking to myself in the mirror felt a bit odd, but it’s now a vital part of my routine. I remind myself of my goals and affirm my capabilities. This simple practice boosts my confidence and shifts my mindset, helping me approach the day with a positive attitude and a clear sense of purpose. As a spiritual person, prayer is also a component of this behavior.

4. Choose Uplifting Music: I’ve come to realize that the music I listen to in the morning has a direct impact on my mood. I now make a conscious choice to play songs with uplifting lyrics and positive energy. Whether it’s an upbeat tune or a song with deeper meaning, it helps me start the day feeling optimistic and ready to take on whatever comes my way. I avoid controversial podcasts and talks that promote division or strife. There’s enough of that on the highways.

5. Take a Morning Walk for Coffee: There’s something incredibly refreshing about starting the workday with a short walk to grab coffee. Sometimes, I go alone for a bit of quiet reflection, and other times I go with my work colleagues. Either way, the fresh air and light conversation puts me in a relaxed, positive mood, and I feel much more prepared to handle the day. It also helps workplace morale!

Establishing a consistent morning routine has truly transformed my day to day life. What was once a chaotic, stressful scramble has become a calm, structured way to set myself up for success. By preparing the night before, incorporating movement, practicing positive self-talk, curating uplifting music, and enjoying a pre work coffee stroll, I’ve found the balance I need to manage multiple roles effectively. If you’re looking to improve your mornings, I encourage you to experiment with these tips and see how they can elevate your own routine.