Welcome back! Have you ever heard the term crafting a ‘5-9’ schedule? This trendy topic seemed to take the world by storm this summer as many new full-time employees, seasoned professionals, and in-between individuals are seeking to fulfill their lives outside of work. Not only is it crucial to remember that we work to live (instead of the other way around), but it’s a key indicator of sustaining happiness. So, what happens for YOU before you start your work day? How can you optimize and create a meaningful pre-work morning? Find out everything you need to know below!

Pre-work Morning Routines

Ditch Your Phone: That’s right, we’re starting off strong and we know it’s a hard one. However, we encourage you to challenge yourself as soon as tomorrow morning, and, when you feel the urge to grab your cell upon opening your eyes, focus your attention elsewhere. Take in the morning light, listen to your uninterrupted thoughts, breathe in, and acknowledge the space that you’re in. Remember, your phone (and its notifications) will always be ready and waiting for you, but the sacred few moments that you have to yourself each morning can remain solely yours by waking up intentionally and off-screen.
Meditation: Above all, achieving a clear mental headspace ahead of initiating work obligations is key to setting you up for professional and personal success. Meditation does not have to look like hard work and can be as simple as 5 minutes of your day! Remember, listing attributes of your life that you’re grateful for, clearing your mind, engaging in breathing, and any other form of mindfulness counts! It’s all about figuring out what works for YOU! And, if you’re not sure where to start, make sure to check out the plethora of websites, apps, and free resources at your fingertips to learn more.
Substantial Breakfast: Let’s be honest, we know that when many people say they’ve “had breakfast” it often means grabbing a cup of coffee and maybe a banana or granola bar on the way out the door. However, by waking up just a bit earlier and creating a few extra minutes for yourself in the morning, you can create a breakfast that will fill not only your tummy but your mind with delight. Transforming this component of your morning into one that brings you peace and happiness will change the way you view morning food! We encourage you to make some eggs, avocado toast, an omelet, a fruit bowl with yogurt or oatmeal, granola or cereal, or any other “substantial” meal that will prove more nutritious than before!
Exercise or Stretching: That’s right, we’re hammering in our encouragement of exercise as we often do. Exercising may look like a morning walk, a short run, an elliptical, a strength-focused online video, a yoga routine, or a stretching sequence! The world of exercise is at our fingertips with just a quick online search, so make sure to incorporate some time for this highly rewarding experience into your morning! Not only with your body prove better off, but you’ll also feel a higher sense of energy, focus, and productivity as a result.
Daily Preparation: Finally, allowing yourself to relax and sit down for a few extra moments each morning will help provide you extra time and space to prepare for the day ahead. This may look like a Google calendar, a physical planner, a quick sticky note to-do list, or any other form of “scheduling” – Regardless of the form it takes, planning out your day will create a sense of accountability and organization all at once!

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