You see it all over Instagram and Pinterest. Individuals having relaxing, slow mornings at home, or super productive mornings that show completed to-do lists before kids wake up. But really, why should you bother? Maybe you really need that extra 42 minutes (because every minute counts) and don’t have kids. So why should you bother with a morning routine that will have you out of bed 42 minutes earlier than you want to be?
You should bother because a solid morning routine is about more than journaling, drinking coffee, and completing half of your to-do list. Morning routines are about starting your day in a way that sets a positive tone for the rest of your day. This may mean journaling, drinking coffee, or starting a load of laundry. For you it may look like ice water and the morning news or listening to an audiobook while emptying the dishwasher. Finding the right way to start your day has many benefits that you could be reaping for the entire day.
1. Less Rush & Stressing
Even if you really need those 42 minutes of sleep, they may not be worth the rushing you do to get out the door every morning. Adding in extra time to your morning routine can equate to less rushing, which in turn lowers your stress level for the morning and the rest of the day. Stress is a burden that is not only hard on our minds, but also our bodies.
2. Equilibrium
With less stress comes a sense of peace or equilibrium. Knowing you have time to get ready in the morning, make your to-go coffee, or simply not speed on the way to work.
3. Relationships
Your relationships may not improve directly from starting a morning routine, but it could be a side effect. Feeling like you have more control over your time and your day can significantly improve your mood and actions all day long. This will be obvious to those who are close to you.
4. Productivity
When you feel better, you do better. Plus, maybe in those extra 42 minutes you will start a load of laundry or empty the dishwasher. But it is perfectly fine if you don’t.
Are you sold on the wonders of a morning routine yet? It’s okay if you’re not. But consider trying a morning routine, or at least getting up early enough to experiment with the extra time one could afford.