Chicago Home and Lifestyles – A Better Morning Routine for a Better Day

We would all like to be more productive during the day. Our morning routine is one of the most effective ways to increase your productivity. Many times, the hardest part of the day is simply to get started. Our days tend to be quite chaotic as more things are dumped on our plates as the day goes on. The morning though is usually quieter before the workday starts. But for a better morning, it needs to start the night before with enough sleep. Do go to sleep at a consistent time each night and plan to get at least 7 hours.

The first thing to do when you wake is to exercise. It does not have to be an hour-long workout, but at least 20 minutes of moderate exercise will get your blood going and wake up your brain. Using weights is good, along with some light cardio. If exercise is not your thing or it is easier for you later in the day, try meditating. Get out of bed and either sit on the floor or a chair. Meditating in bed might let you fall back to sleep. Meditation can leave you focused with a quiet mind. Use this on days you expect to be stressful.

After your exercise or meditating, do get yourself ready. Years ago, we all needed to leave the house to work. Now with so many working from home, the usual routine is often neglected. Working online in your pajamas is not the best way to start the day. Take a shower, fix your hair and makeup, and dress in work-appropriate clothes. Make sure the house is in order too. Make your bed and straighten the bedroom and kitchen after breakfast. This creates a sense of order for the day as well as in your mind. You will also appreciate not coming back to a mess later. 

Speaking of breakfast, it is essential. I know many of you do not think it necessary, but look at the word itself – break/fast. Break your fast. It is likely you have not eaten for several hours before bed. Your body needs some fuel to perform efficiently. It need not be a full meal, but your stomach needs something. Make sure you include some protein and a complex carb. Peanut butter on whole wheat or some scrambled eggs are great. I sometimes scramble a big batch of eggs and eat for a few days; they taste great out of the microwave. Throw on some toast with a slice of cheese for a good breakfast sandwich.

A good morning starts the night before. Lay out your outfit for the next day, so you spend less time finding clothes. Plan your following day. Write down the 3-5 top tasks you need to accomplish for the following day. Get into a sleep mode before it is time for bed. Limit your blue light from devices like phones and tablets. It can mess with circadian rhythms that will give you better sleep. If you have a tough time getting up or are a habitual user of the snooze button, set a second alarm. Having to physically get out of bed to shut it off will stop the snoozing. 

Have an awesome day!

KATHLEEN WEAVER-ZECH AND DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO