What’s the first thing you do when you open your eyes in the morning?
Push the snooze button? Hug a loved one? Pushups?
Everyone goes about their business differently in the morning, but it’s rare to come across someone who’s perfectly content with their morning routine. The routine of some is to have no routine at all. And what works for one might not work for another.
For instance, the first thing I do when my eyes pop open?
I check my email. Honestly. More on that in a minute.
As a freelance writer, it’s important I get my butt in gear early because time is money. The more work I do the more I build my company. For me, the best hours to get work done are the hours before noon. Here’s my guide for a simple morning routine that will keeps you productive, happy and worry-free.
1. 7am: Wake Up
Whatever your early is, push the envelope and get up earlier. The only way to fit in more work is to add extra time to complete it. I wake up at 7am every day. Wait, that’s a lie. I try to wake up at 7am every day – I allow myself a bit of slack if it’s a supreme struggle to get out of bed one morning.
But it rarely is. Wanna know why?
2. 7:02am: Check Email
It’s easy to get out of bed because I immediately check my email. There’s nothing like deleting a bunch of stuff you know you won’t need. And if there’s an important email that requires attention? Deal with it and get on with your day, because the next step is awesome.
3. 7am – 8am: Drink Coffee & Read
This is my favourite part of the day. It’s nice and early so I already feel like I have a headstart and there’s nothing pressing in my inbox. Skimming through my social channels and catching up on articles in my Instapaper queue keeps me in the loop with my industry and helps me prepare for a day of writing. I usually drink a cup of coffee and read until around 8am, or until I’m chomping at the bit to get stuff done.
4. 8am – 10am: Tackle Your List
Every organized person has a list of tasks they need to accomplish. I use a program called Asana to keep my responsibilities clear. My priorities are listed by the date they’re due, so I start chipping away. Perhaps your priorities are weighted by importance. It doesn’t matter. When 8am rolls around, it’s time to get to work on the things that matter to your career.
5. 10am: It’s Healthy Snack O’Clock
Once 10am rolls around so do the tummy grumbles. (<- not a sentence you thought you’d read today). I usually whip up a high-protein smoothie or an omelette if I’m feeling particularly exotic. “Wait, I can’t do that at the office,” you might say. My answer: why not? Enjoying a healthy snack mid-morning will re-energize you for the bulk of your day. You’ll be more productive and create better work. What office wouldn’t appreciate that?
The Key to Keeping a Routine
I like work to be relaxed. I also like to feel a sense of accomplishment when I clock out at the end of the day. Being my own boss means if I don’t accomplish important things then the money-well is bound to dry up sooner rather than later.
This routine works for me. Do you think it could work for you? Give it a try and let me know how it goes!
Article by: Kelvin Cech
Kelvin Cech is a writer, copywriter & blogger living in Vancouver but, through the wonders of the internet, works in everyone’s digital backyard. If you like writing and/or lame jokes. Yes, Kelvin believes in Bigfoot.
