My personal calming morning routine

A common theme among high achievers is that they all have a solid morning routine that sets the tone for their day. I am typically good with mornings but find my mornings where I have to get around for work in the morning become chaotic and that is not how I want to start any day and I’m sure many of you can relate. Therefore, this year, I have been much more intentional about creating a calming morning routine for myself, especially on those mornings that are not calm. So this is the 10 step morning routine I try to stick to that is calming, attainable, and is intentional without taking hours.

Also, If you don’t stick to a routine daily. Don’t sweat it, really, forgive yourself. I certainly don’t and I’m sure all of the people with their intense morning routines don’t either. More often than not is the goal, not perfection.

A Corporate Girl Calming Morning Routine

Step 1 – You must wake up when your alarm goes off.

I learned there is science about how hitting snooze makes is much harder for your body to wake up because it starts another sleep cycle. Instead, turn your alarm off and I do one of two things if I am not feeling like getting up. 3 swift movements (thanks Ashley Eckhoff) or use the 5 second rule from Mel Robbins and up you go. Remember your alarm does not have to be a jarring sound.

Step 2 – Wash your face or take a shower.

There is nothing quite as refreshing as cleaning yourself and the action will help you wake up.

Step 3 – Do your skincare,

put on some lotion with a nice calming scent, brush your hair, put on some cozy clothes or workout clothes if you have time in your morning.

Step 4 – I have dogs that expect breakfast.

Therefore, breakfast must come next for the pups. I know having dogs or other humans to take care of in the AM can feel like a burden, but I like to reframe that and think of it as accountability buddies that hold me to my routine.

Step 5 – I make coffee and grab my Skinny Confidential ice roller out of the fridge.

I ice roll while the pups are eating and my coffee is brewing. It is great because I have already did my skin care and the ice is a great prep for my makeup.

Step 6 – I go outside with my dogs, bring my coffee, and LEAVE THE PHONE INSIDE.

I sit down while they do their business, sometimes I zone out and try to notice the nature around me and think about priorities for the day.

Step 7 – I read my daily page from the Daily Stoic.

The Daily Stoic has dated pages that are each less than a page long and great food for thought. Then, if I do have time I will write down some things I want to accomplish for the day. I would like to get into journalling and/or mediation, but at this point I simply don’t have the time on a normal work day. If I have extra time I will read some of another book, preferably something self help or business related.

Step 8 – If I do have time, I will do an at home workout.

If not, I will continue getting ready for work. Something that makes getting ready must easier is if I have my outfit planned out for the day.

Step 9 – I will take my dogs for a short walk.

The sun is typically out at this point and getting some sunlight first thing in the morning is excellent for your circadian rhythm and mood.

Step 10 – Finally I will eat breakfast,

if I am driving to work I will bring my breakfast to work because I can take my time eating at my desk instead of trying to rush before I leave for the office.

Let me know if any of this is helpful. Also, if you have any calming morning rituals, I would love to hear about it!