Win the Day with a Strong Morning Routine

I absolutely love waking up in the morning! I know not everyone is a “morning person.” But for me, this is the best part of the day. My morning routine serves as a springboard, and sets the tone for a great rest of my day.

I believe that establishing a strong morning routine is one of the keys to a successful life. If you win the morning, chances are good that you’ll win the day.

My morning routine starts with prayer. Even before I get out of bed, I thank God for the day. If prayer isn’t something you’re comfortable with, then you might at least think about something you’re grateful for – even if it’s just the fact that you woke up!

Once I’m up, our cat (his name is Big Dog) is up, too. He’s quiet, but we have an unspoken agreement that he won’t meow incessantly if I feed him within a reasonable amount of time. 

After Big Dog is fed, I drink a large glass of water, with lemon. Water is essential in the morning, as our bodies haven’t hydrated for several hours.

Next, I go immediately for the coffee. I drink two cups each day, but I need the first one ASAP! I love the taste of good coffee, and I appreciate the caffeine, too.

I love to read and write in the morning. The house is quiet, and very peaceful. This has always been my ideal environment for reading and writing. I’m writing this article as I enjoy my first cup of coffee and the solitude of the morning.

If I’m reading, I set an alarm for 30 minutes. Of course, I could read all day. I probably average two hours a day, an hour of which is an audiobook during my commute. My schedule in the morning is very regimented, though, so I limit morning reading to 30 minutes.

If I’m writing, and depending on the day, I may allow up to an hour. Weekdays are at least 30 minutes, and sometimes I write longer on the weekends. Since I’m working on a book right now – as well as writing weekly articles for our newsletter – my allotted time is more than it would be if I wasn’t working on a book.

After reading or writing, I exercise almost every day. If I have a squash match scheduled, then I’ll leave and go play squash. Otherwise, I’ll work out at home. The type of workout depends on the day, but includes lifting, or cardio, or both. Fitness is a huge part of my life, and very important to my overall success. Working out is good not only for your body, but also for your mind. I feel motivated and happy after a great workout, and I’m energized for the rest of my day.

After exercising, I always enjoy a healthy breakfast. Since I’m a creature of habit, my three favorite breakfast items are (1) a protein drink, (2) eggs and bok choy, and (3) steel-cut oats with blueberries and strawberries. I eat steel-cut oats almost every day, and add either eggs or a protein drink.

What about you? Do you have a morning routine that helps you to be your best?

If you do, please contact me, and let me know what works for you.

My morning routine works for me, but that doesn’t mean it will work for you. Experiment with different things, and figure out what works. Here are some additional activities you might consider:

– Read the Bible

– Write in your journal

– Practice yoga

– Meditate

– Go for a walk

If you’re not doing it already, then I challenge you to establish a consistent regimen that makes you a priority. If you win the morning, you’ll win the day!