Build a morning routine with these simple tips and tools. Center and calm your mind and find clarity and purpose for your day.
Print My Weekly Schedule and keep reading for tips to conquer your morning routine.
“The money is in the banana stand.”
If you’re a fan of the show Arrested Development, you’ll know exactly what that phrase means. For the rest of you, here’s a brief explanation. George Bluth, a crooked and formerly wealthy entrepreneur, is serving jail time. As patriarch of a comically dysfunctional family, he advises his only reliable son from prison.
In an attempt to provide the family with liquid cash, George gives Michael a clue. “The money is in the banana stand.” George refers to a frozen treat kiosk the family has run on the boardwalk for many years.
Michael disregards his errant father’s advice, only to find that the walls of the tiny banana stand have been secretly papered with $100 dollar bills for years.
It was right in front of them all the time.
Powerful Morning Routine
For years, I dreaded waking up. No matter how I tried, it seemed my day morphed from one rushed activity to another. Finally, I crashed into bed at night exhausted, only to do it all again the next day.
I knew I should be getting more out of my day. Since I didn’t consider myself a “morning person”, I thought staying up later would do the trick. But, as I got a little older, working into the wee hours became more of a challenge.
Adults need 7 or more hours of sleep per night for the best health and wellbeing. Short sleep duration is defined as less than 7 hours of sleep per 24-hour period.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
When my kids left home, finding a morning routine became even more challenging. Now that my time was my own, I floundered to find a new rhythm.
My Secrets
If you’re struggling to set the pace for your day or just want to get more done, start by printing this free Weekly Schedule. Then, follow along as I describe my morning routine. I hope it gives you inspiration to craft your own uplifting schedule.
How you wake up each day and your morning routine (or lack thereof) dramatically affects your levels of success in every single area of your life.
The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod
First Things First
First thing out of bed, I slide on my favorite slippers. Maybe you’ve suffered from plantar fasciitis, like I have. If so, you know that barefooted strolls are a thing of the past.
I love my Skecher’s slippers for their arch support and furry lining. They also have a non-slip sole so I can go outside and pick up the paper.
If it’s a chilly day, I’ll add some aloe socks. They do double duty to keep my feet warm and soften rough callouses.
Cozy Footware
Java time
One of the little kindnesses my husband does is set up the coffee pot. I usually get up first and amble to the kitchen where my favorite brew is waiting.
We once considered a morning trip to Starbucks a treat. Now we’d much rather pocket that money and enjoy our morning cup at home. I honestly prefer to be my own barista and add just the right amount of yummy creamer to my favorite coffee mug.
Favorite Coffee and Creamer
Setting My Intention
This next practice has taken many forms for me. Recently, I’ve settled into a peaceful routine using my Happy Planner, along with My Weekly Schedule printable. Checking in every day, I review my week and set priorities for the day before me.
Have you ever heard the phrase “set an intention”? It just means choosing a focus for the next 24 hours. The important part of this is making your focus something completely within your control. A daily goal is a task that could get derailed, but an intention is a mindset that you alone can control.
Here’s an example. Your goal for today may be “grocery shopping”. But what if you run into traffic, forget your debit card, or get an emergency phone call?
However, an intention like “show gratitude” can change even these unexpected circumstances into an opportunity to practice your daily mindset. “Thank you that I can drive, have money in the bank, and have people I care about.”
Most mornings, I light a deliciously scented candle and set it beside me. The gentle sway of the flame and soothing aroma waken my mind and senses as I ponder the day before me.
Meditation
Scented Candle
Time to Clean Up
Face and body care become more important over 40. Part of my morning routine is using some of my favorite products for face and hair. Gentle is the key word for skincare as we age.
I’ve replaced harsh bar soaps and facial scrubs with my favorite hydrating gel cleanser. My hair no longer needs washing every day and this yummy-smelling dry shampoo helps me prolong my style.
The Secret is in the Banana Stand
Just like that crazy banana stand, the secret to taking charge of my daily routine has been right in front of me all along. Having a morning routine is the simple practice that’s transformed my attitude from defeated and overwhelmed to purposeful and focused.
What’s your morning routine? Share your “banana stand” story!
love the Candle idea! I think scents really help me, but I tend to forget to light candles/ turn on my diffuser/ or incense. Going to put them right oon my desk moving forward
Thanks so much, Rizzy! I recently bought a diffuser and love it.