When I was growing up, mornings in my house were EPIC. And by epic, I mean the stuff of legendary family stories that live on to this day.
That’s because some of them were absolute chaos!
(Sorry, Mom and Dad, for spilling the beans!)
Everyone was struggling to get out of the house in time for work and school – with no plan or schedule.
At least once a week there would be a “clothing” emergency. There was a daily last-minute struggle to slap deli meat or peanut butter between two slices of bread to bring for lunch … as well as some yelling and sometimes even a few tears.
Not to mention fighting over the bathroom. Or doing battle over the cereal for breakfast.
My siblings and I still laugh about it and swap stories!
But back then, we didn’t laugh that much (especially when we were late for the bus).
Even though it seemed normal at the time, it was a tough way to start the day.
This is just ONE REASON I’m a fan of having a morning and evening routine. It literally has set me free from all that chaos!
For you, it could mean the difference between stopping at a fast-food joint on the way to work … and having a freshly blended smoothie because all the ingredients were ready-to-go.
It could mean the difference between dragging your body “through the motions” … and feeling ENERGIZED to take on your day because you did a few minutes of stretching and movement before your shower.
It could mean the difference between waking up in “reaction” mode … and leading the day with intention and purpose.
And it could also mean the difference between falling short on your health and fitness goals … and CRUSHING them.
It took me a while to figure this all out, though. I used to think routines were restrictive and stressful … but now I know they are just the opposite.
Routines that set you free:
1) are simple and
2) are tailored to fit YOUR life and goals.
This leads me to a great mini-assignment for you!
→ What are 1 to 3 small things you can do tonight – that take 5 minutes, TOPS – to make tomorrow morning easier (and a little healthier)?
IDEAS: Get your clothes ready, put your workout bag by the door, prep your breakfast and lunch – or maybe help your children (if you have any in the house) do that?
Now … tonight, make it happen!
To really ramp this up and make it a habit, do these things right after you eat dinner. That way they’re done and out of the way, and you can enjoy the rest of the evening!
