Success can be defined in many different ways. And to be honest, every single person should have a different version of how they can achieve personal success.
But no matter how you look at it, morning routines are a huge part of being successful. Everyone gets the same amount of hours in a day, so how you use those hours is what differentiates you. I switch my morning routine up every once in awhile, but here are 5 things that I've tried to incorporate into it at some capacity.
1) Make your bed.
It might sound childish and super simple. But it can be a huge difference in your day!
If you made your bed in the morning after you got up, you’ve already accomplished something. You subconsciously feel a small sense of pride, and you will be encouraged to get working towards the next task.
Also, your room will look a little bit more organized 😉
2) Drink a morning concoction.
For some this may be warm lemon water. For others this may be a morning smoothie. And for most, a cup of coffee is mixed in at some point in the morning! Adding a healthy drink to your morning routine can wake up the brain and spike the energy level!
I've gone cycles between warm water and lemon, warm turmeric and ginger water, and most of the time just a cup of black coffee. When I'm in Europe that turns into a doppio (double shot of espresso). Or if I'm feeling a bit wild I'll get a cafe ginseng. During the winter I'll throw in a bulletproof coffee here and there.
3) Exercise. Get your body moving!
For some this may be 30 minutes of hot yoga. For others this may be a 20 minute HIIT workout. If you’re not the “workout type” it could even be ten minutes of simple body stretches (touch your toes and jumping jacks). I don't really lift weights too often anymore, so I try and get my sweat with some pickup basketball as much as possible.
Whatever activity you choose, just make sure you don't skip this one!
Getting a sweat is another way to wake up the body, both physically and mentally. And you won’t have that “I really need to workout today” thought looming over your head all day. Get it done first thing in the morning and start your day off right!
4) Take an ice cold shower!
“What!? No way…”
I know... I used to say the same thing. But after being a scaredy cat for awhile, my guy David Nurse convinced me to stop being soft and if I gave it a chance it would take my mornings to the next level! Trust me, it’s life changing.
Here are a few benefits:
— overcome a fear first thing in the morning.
— really snap out of sleep and wake up!
— stimulates blood flow circulation
— speeds up muscle soreness and recovery
5) Self Reflection.
There are several ways to reflect. No matter which practice of reflection you choose, it allows you to relax, be honest with yourself, and focus on what is truly important. At various points throughout our lives we all need some encouragement, rejuvenation, strength, or peace.
Maybe separately… or maybe all at once.
If you take just 10 or 15 minutes to pray, meditate or journal, you will notice a difference!
Don't beat yourself up if you're not perfect with these categories. Start with one minute a day if you have to and work your way up! I hope you find some of these recommendations helpful!
Give them all try. And find whatever mix works for you.
But don’t forget, successful people are consistent with their actions.
Success is not a “sometimes” thing. Make it a lifestyle!