Last week I wrote a blog post about DECIDING to plan my days — to set in motion some doable routines for progress and survival. Oh, yes. I am acutely aware that I need to enact a plan. And, I WANT TO. I crave order, peace and discipline. But, damn, it’s been kinda tough.
There are, however, two things that I have implemented and with which I have had varying success over the past week or so. One is a routine, and the other is a healthy habit.
I have read — and I agree wholeheartedly — that smooth, productive mornings set the tone for the rest of the day. That’s it! That’s exactly what I want! So here is the morning routine that I have come up with to allow me the best start to my day.
- 5:45 am – Wake up
- 5:55 am – Coffee/Tea and Journal/Pray
- 6:15 am – Shower, Get Dressed, Make-up, Hair
- 7:05 am – Daily Chores (like swish & swipe bathroom, laundry, empty drainboard), Finish Lunches/Snacks
- 7:30 am – Margin
- 7:45 am – Leave for Work
So, guess what. I’m a little bit struggling. Especially on the days when my kids are with their dad. With no littles to get up and dressed and fed and out the door on time, I tend to go into “chill” mode. Ugh. I have my reasons (ahem … excuses) such as “I didn’t sleep well” or “I really have more wiggle room this morning” or “I want to snuggle with my kit-cat Charlie,” so I hit the snooze and roll over. And, do you know what? Most of the time I don’t even fall back asleep. In fact, most days I am up before my alarm. But getting out of bed is a chore. I’m not proud, people. I need to work on this.
On a positive note, I am doing better with the healthy habit that I started last week. I’ve been bringing my water bottle to work. … and everywhere! My goal is to drink 80 ounces of water every day. I have to say, most days I struggle to reach the full 80 ounces. But, I’m hitting 64 to 72 ounces on most days. 🙂 Baby steps, right? I AM proud of this accomplishment.
I am using the Habit Tracker in the back of my Planner to help me keep on top of this goal. 🙂
So, there are my baby steps so far. They feel kinda small — and maybe a little inadequate compared to the lofty goals I read about here in the blogosphere. But I am proud of myself for starting. And for writing down my goals. And for sharing my imperfect, happy life with you!
How are you all making it through your days? Are you conquering them like the boss I know you are? Are you barely surviving? Somewhere in between? I’d love to hear some of your tricks for doable routines and healthy habits. <3
Certainly not small goals. How many people wake up that early ? How many people can say “Hey, I’ve done ____, ____, ____, and ____ before 7:30AM!” I think you will find that with time you will add more to your routine, or perhaps start waking up even earlier!
I have found morning routine has made me immeasurably happier.
Since January 2017, I have been preparing a week’s worth of lunches on Sunday evening, waking up every weekday at 5AM (okay, maybe I skip two to three times a month), going to the gym by 5:30AM (gym is across the street), home and showered by 6:50AM, breakfast and out the door by 7:15-7:30AM. I am in a much better mood wth my students, I feel I have more patience, and I make healthier choices during the day. I always have a to-do list of everything I need to do at work for each day (photocopies, grade, clean, meetings, etc.).
Upon arriving home, I feel completely relaxed knowing I’ve done so much and it’s only 3:30PM. I have the rest of the day to do absolutely whatever I want.
I crave routine, too. It’s a wonderful thing!
“Porta en nauta est.”
Yes! Sounds like you are on to something great! Thanks for sharing the details of your morning routine. I believe that is such a strong key to productivity and happiness. Wonderful to hear from you, Jeff! And “Latina vivit!” — always! <3