Schedule Like a Pro...part 1 - the morning

Ever feel as if, in the quest to get everything done, you’re not quite doing enough?

All too often, time management tips are a too prevalent. Some even conflict with each other. What we need is a system that can be adapted no matter our profession.

What system does science say allows us to be most productive?  What schedule do pros use? 

What you need to take away from this is that feeling in control and making sure your energy levels are matched to the importance of the task at hand.  So let’s assemble a schedule that will help you and that will use real researched techniques into a more cohesive schedule you can apply to your day.

How do you work up an actual schedule?  I’m not talking about the traditional setting an appointment to meet a client.  But an actual planned ‘task’ schedule.  You may want to get your calendar or notepad out as the information shared over the next three blogs will have concepts you will want to add to your routine.  If you don’t have a routine what we will lay out below will change the way you manage your day to day schedule.

FIRST FIVE MINUTES OF YOUR DAY

1. Turn off your alarm (30 seconds): Place your alarm out of reach, away from your bed, so you have to get up to turn it off. Break out a big smile as you walk, which releases hormones that create happy feelings. Tell yourself it’s going to be a good day — out loud!  (Might want to get your significant other in on your morning routine – heads off mild panic attacks when you greet the morning)…
2. Let in the light of the sun rising (10 seconds): Wake up with some sunshine, which instantly elevates your mood and sends the signal to your brain that it’s morning.
3. Bring on the circulation (one minute): Spend this time moving your body. You can do jumping jacks, sit-ups, or body stretches. Get your yoga on!
4. Meditate on your day (one minute): Take time to visualize your day.  Imagine your success; how meetings will go, the things you need to remember, and happy outcomes of important conversations and interactions with others. This is some of your most productive thought time of the day – have an idea better write it down!
5. Be grateful (30 seconds): Tell yourself what you’re grateful for. Journaling is the best way to use this time.  Starting the morning on an appreciative note sets you up for a day of caring, understanding, and thoughtfulness.
6. Make your bed (one minute): Tidying your bedroom is proven to aid in getting you motivated to leave your room. Bonus is that it’s so nice to come home to a bed that’s already been made.
7. Be your choir of energy (Remaining 50 seconds): Singing is not restricted to the shower anymore.  Turn on a song that has some life in the rhythm and sing along as you dance out of your room. Singing releases endorphins, which naturally elevate your mood and energize your body.

 MORNING IS WHEN YOUR BRAIN IS AT ITS SHARPEST

The average persons brain is at its most powerful two to four hours after waking – SO DON’T WASTE IT

Watch for part two your day at the office and three wrapping up your day coming soon!