I was working recently with a group of leaders from a global consulting firm. This was the last session of a four-month journey, and they were sharing the impact the journey had had not only on their performance but more importantly on their life. What surprised them the most was the fact that the impact didn’t come from one massive change they had made but from a few small, tiny changes.
Charles Duhigg, author of The Power of Habits, talks about keystone habits. He shares that there are a few small habits which have a cascading impact on the rest of your day. One of these keystone habits is the morning routine.
What do you do first thing in the morning when you wake up?
For many people, too many people, the answer is checking emails or scrolling on social media. This can quickly become a negative keystone habit which sets the down for the rest of your day.
I suggest you really take the time to think about your morning routine. I would like to suggest three things: light, intent, and value.
Light – start your day by exposing yourself to natural light. I was listening recently to a great podcast from a neuroscientist who was explaining the impact of just 10 minutes of natural light in the morning to wake up your whole body. Get out and walk for 10 minutes.
Intent – Look at your day and set up your intention for the day. I start my day by thinking about the people I love, the things I’m passionate about, being grateful for what I have and saying to myself, “Today is going to be an amazing day”. Take just a few minutes and set your intention for the day.
Value – do something which is of value to you. It could be doing some exercise, reading something interesting or writing to someone. Most mornings I spend 20 to 30 minutes reading something to learn.
One more suggestion, make your bed. This could also become a keystone habit, start the day by being organized by making your bed.
Robin Sharma, famous author, and speaker wrote a book called ‘The 5am club’. His suggestion: “Own your morning, elevate your life.”
Image – book of Robin Sharma the 5am club
So, what are you going to do to own your morning and to elevate your life?
This is this week’s Work Smarter, Live Better tip. I hope you enjoy it. Have a great day and enjoy those beautiful mornings.
A bientôt,
Cyril
