Morning routines give you more control over your schedules and day-to-day experiences. They help you focus on the most important tasks and allow you to manage your time to increase productivity effectively. Some of the world’s wealthiest and most successful people rely on their morning routines to ensure their days are productive and beneficial. If you hope to achieve the same level of efficiency and productivity in your daily life, creating a morning routine that fits your lifestyle and preferences is key.
To give you an idea, here are four ways to step up your morning routine inspired by some of the most successful people—plus tips on how you can start using them in your everyday life.
1. Go straight for water
It might be tempting to go straight for coffee as soon as you step out of the bedroom. Unfortunately, science shows that this habit can do more harm than good to your mental and physical wellbeing.
According to studies conducted on workers in the U.S., researchers found that more than 80% of people consume caffeine regularly. This may be due to the fact that most Americans don’t get enough restorative sleep each night. While coffee can give you that extra kick of energy you need during a groggy morning, the boost in energy is only momentary and will leave you feeling drained later in the day.
The reason is your body naturally produces increased amounts of cortisol right after you wake up. Add caffeine, which enhances the effects of cortisol in the body, into the mix and you’ll find yourself dealing with an overwhelming influx of cortisol in your body. Cortisol is a stress hormone produced by the body that makes you feel anywhere from attentive to nervous. When there’s too much cortisol in the body, that’s when you start to see side effects such as anxiety, skin concerns, headaches, and heart palpitations.
Instead of coffee, experts recommend drinking water as soon as you wake. The body can become a little dehydrated after hours without water during the sleep cycle. Drinking cool water first thing in the morning can aid digestion and boost metabolism, giving you more energy to start your day. But when you're ready for coffee, don't forget to add your Collagen For Her ;)
2. Read and journal
According to a study by the University of Sussex, reading helps lower stress levels by more than 60 percent. Instead of scrolling through social media as soon as you open your eyes, try reading a few pages from a book or article to start your day. Not only can this put you in a better mood, but it can also boost cognitive activity, preparing you for the challenges of the day.
Another great practice that goes along with reading is journaling. Studies show that people that practiced journaling had better job performance, reduced stress, and lowered anxiety. Arianna Huffington and Warren Buffet are two examples of people who start their day off by reading thought-provoking articles and writing in their journals.
3. Find time to sweat
Many successful leaders make exercise part of their daily routine. Exercising first thing in the morning can help you get the energy you need to tackle the challenges of the day. Furthermore, it puts you in a better mood by helping you feel more rejuvenated and recharged.
Studies show that exercise boosts the body’s production of neurotransmitters that promote cognitive clarity, improving mental functions and focus. It’s no wonder why former president Barack Obama prioritized exercise in his daily schedule, even when he lived in such a restrictive environment in the White House.
Your exercise routine doesn’t have to be anything complicated. A simple 10 to 15 minutes routine every morning is enough to give you more energy to start your day right.
4. Write down your to-dos
Having a list of things to do during the day can help you stay organized and on top of your responsibilities. It solves the issue of “what should I do first” and allows you to tackle one task at a time. It also saves you from feeling overwhelmed by your daily obligations at work and home.
Whether it’s taking care of laundry, walking the dog, or finishing your quarterly progress reports, write everything down on your to-do list. Doing this helps you avoid forgetting important tasks and carrying them over to the next day.
The Bottom Line
All people have the potential to be great leaders. It’s up to you if you’ll take the risk and pursue this potential. Above are four morning routines that the top 1% of society use to get their days in line. Try them out for size and see if they can lead you to enjoy the same lucky fate. Good luck!
