Routines are the foundation of a successful day. They don't just automate basic tasks like brushing your teeth; they create a schedule that allows you to perform at your best. Without them, you are likely to be distracted by every minor demand for your attention. When you run a work routine, your brain operates on autopilot, saving energy and helping you avoid the dreaded afternoon productivity slump.
An automatic morning routine changes everything The first few minutes of your morning can make or break your day. "How you wake up each day dramatically affects your levels of success in every single area of your life," says Hal Elrod, author of The Miracle Morning. While some people have perfect routines that guide them from the moment they wake up, others struggle to find their flow. If you find mornings difficult, you can start using a "productive mood anchor" to get more done before midday.
Reduce micro-stress first thing in the morning If you can't seem to find your flow, change the first thing you do. Instead of diving straight into things you must do, indulge in activities you love first. This could be a side project, an interesting book, or a motivational podcast. Spend a few minutes connecting your mind and body — appreciate your surroundings or reflect on yesterday's accomplishments.
Crucially, don't reach for your phone to check email or social media immediately. Take care of your well-being first; the world can wait. Brief moments of anxiety or "micro-stresses" add up throughout the day. By starting on an optimistic note, you put yourself in a strategic, rather than reactive, frame of mind.
Find your productive mood anchor (action trigger) "Good habits leave our natures free to explore the larger experiences of life," noted Ralph W. Sockman. Once you are in a positive mode, use a personal "anchor" that tells your brain it's time to tackle your Most Important Things (MITs).
Psychologists suggest that action triggers — an action that automatically sets off a reaction — are the best ways to create new habits. For many, the mere association of coffee or tea with work becomes so strong that they no longer need to force themselves to start.
As Aaron Lynn of Asian Efficiency writes, "Most people have something that serves as a good 'anchor' for their productive moods." It doesn't have to be a beverage; it can be a specific soundtrack or even putting on noise-canceling headphones. For me, it's a combination: a cup of tea or coffee followed immediately by concentration music or movie soundtracks. This ritual signals my brain that it's time to get things done.
Closing thoughts A good day starts with a great morning ritual. Even if you aren't a "morning person," you can still make your mornings productive. Find the initial conditions or triggers that work for you, and never give in to a defeated morning.