The Perfect Morning Routine Checklist For Success

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SETTING YOUR DAY UP FOR SUCCESS FROM THE GET GO

When I was younger, I couldn’t have cared less about having a structured morning routine.

I popped out of bed at the last possible moment and drifted wherever my day might take me. 

Nothing ever got done, and I found myself floating mindlessly through life.

One day I realized I wasn’t exactly where I wished to be, and I was the only thing holding myself back.

So, I began to do research on productivity and how to rewire my way of thinking. It wasn’t easy, but after a while, I noticed a subtle shift in my mindset. 

One of the changes that seemed to have the most significant impact on my productivity was implementing a steady morning routine. 

HOW MORNING ROUTINES WILL TAKE YOUR DAY TO THE NEXT LEVEL 

Having a good morning routine sets the tone for the rest of your day. 

Have you ever noticed that when you start the day off by vegetating on the couch and watching TV, it seems to be harder to motivate yourself the rest of the day? 

I know it is for me. If I start my day by lounging about, all productivity completely goes out the window, leaving me disappointed and a little cabin fevery by the end of the day. 

Some of the many benefits of creating and implementing a healthy morning routine include:

• Increases productivity
• Boosts mood
• Gives a sense of accomplishment
• Aids in better management of time
• Aids in keeping motivation 

“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.”

-Howard Thurman

THE PERFECT CHECKLIST FOR A MORE PRODUCTIVE MORNING

There are so many options when it comes to crafting your perfect morning schedule.

Here are a few of the things I like to include to optimize my mornings and help keep myself on track.  

1. NEVER HIT SNOOZE

Did you know that when you hit the snooze button and allow yourself to drift back off for five minutes, you are doing your body more harm than good? 

By continuing to doze off, you are allowing your brain to start a new REM cycle, which it will be unable to finish.

By allowing your brain to release more melatonin as you snooze for a few more minutes, you will have created a fog which you will have to battle for the first few hours of your day.

So get up the first time! 

I find that plugging my phone across the room at night is a great motivator to get me out of bed the first time. 

Also, be sure to get a good night’s rest, to make each morning easier! Now, I know this is easier said than done.

If you are struggling with your nightly routine, be sure to check out my article on Creating A Good Evening Routine. 

2. RESIST REACHING FOR A SCREEN 

It is so easy to get lost in the neverending notifications that have piled up through the night.

One of the worst things you can do to derail your morning is to get lost in social media.

This is why you should refrain from going through your device for at least the first hour or two of your morning if you are able. 

All the notifications and problems can wait! 

3. MAKE YOUR BED

I know it sounds silly, and you probably hear it all the time, but making your bed each morning really does make a difference!

Making your bed is such a small task that can easily be accomplished each morning and aid in keeping you in the proper headspace for success. 

4. ALWAYS HAVE A PLAN

A day unplanned is a day easily wasted, which is why it is essential to start each day with a map for success. 

Creating a checklist is the best way for me to stay on track throughout the day. 

So, determine your priorities, use a notebook, scribble it all out the night before, so upon waking, you are ready to go!

This way, there is no guessing. You already have your clear guide! 

5. MEDITATE/STRETCH

Mediating first thing in the morning can do wonders for your mood.

I find that pairing meditation with reciting my morning affirmations does very well.

Set aside a few minutes to stretch and ponder your goals. Not only will your body thank you, but also your mind.

6. JOURNAL

Even if it’s for 5 minutes or less, journaling can do wonders on your mindset for the day.

My favorite practice is jotting down the things I’m grateful for, or the things I expect from this day. 

7. LISTEN TO A MOTIVATIONAL AUDIOBOOK OR PODCAST

Listening to content, you find inspiring first thing in the morning is an excellent way to place yourself in a productive mindset and calm anxiety. 

8. FUEL YOUR BODY WITH A HEALTHY BREAKFAST

Putting healthy foods into our bodies is one of the best ways to aid with productivity. Food is fuel, and it is crucial to fuel our bodies for the long haul! 

Also, don’t forget to hydrate!

9. GET READY FOR THE DAY 

Getting ready for the day and practicing self-care is essential even when we might be sitting home all day. 

Getting ready for the day boosts our self-esteem and helps us be prepared for any surprise ventures that may come our way throughout the day. 

So spend some time on yourself! Maybe do a face mask, or deep condition your hair! Whatever helps you feel rejuvenated. 

10. EAT THE FROG 

If you are new to the personal development world, you are probably hearing this phrase for the first time. 

“Eating the frog” essentially means, to take on the worst task, or the job you are dreading the most first. 

The phrase “eating the frog” originates from an old Mark Twain quote. 

“If it’s your job to eat a frog, it’s best to do it first thing in the morning. And If it’s your job to eat two frogs, it’s best to eat the biggest one first.”

– Mark Twain 

IN CONCLUSION 

It is said that we are the most productive for the first 5 hours of the day. So let’s make them count! 

I challenge you to sit down and map out your ideal morning routine. Try it out, adjust where needed but just stick with it! 

CONSISTENCY IS KEY! 

For a more detailed map of how to create a routine, be sure to check out my article How To Create The Perfect Routine.

If you’re looking for more resources for setting goals and achieving your best life, be sure to SUBSCRIBE to stay current on future articles and to receive our FREE 5-day Mind Reboot Camp email series! 

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What are some things you like to include in your morning routine? What are some of your biggest challenges when it comes to sticking to a routine?

Let me know in the comments below! 

Have a lovely day!