Are you an early bird or a night owl? Well, in this blog, we are talking to all of the early birds in our #ByteLyfeFam, or those of you who want to create a solid morning routine. A morning routine helps us set the tone for the day, and can better allow us to control our schedules. As we start each day fresh, we can better focus on what is in front of us, where to prioritize our time, and, ultimately, increase our productivity.
There are plenty of ways to switch up your morning routine for a more productive day. Some try exercising in the morning, others try meditation. For us, we love to journal. Journaling first thing helps you clear your mind, unleash your creativity, set intentions for the day, and much more.
Journaling in the morning can either be a form of meditation or a great way to organize your day. If you struggle with how to get into the habit of morning journaling, here are some tips that may help.
1. Commit to journaling first thing every morning.
Morning is a great time of day to write down your thoughts. Your brain is fresh and often not filled with any outside influences from the day. Commit to journaling first thing every morning as part of your daily ritual. Before you know it, you’ll have created a new habit!
2. Avoid all distractions.
It’s easy to forget to journal or get carried away with your day. Dedicate this moment to spending a little time on self-care. Stay away from potential distractions for however long you want to journal. This includes other people, your phone, or computer (if you’re not digital journaling.) Soothing music may help, but try to stay away from podcasts or radio. If you remove yourself from your distractions, you may find journaling easier than you thought.
3. Use writing prompts.
It’s okay to need some help getting started. Journal prompts are there for you on days when you just don’t know what to say. Until you’re accustomed to writing freely, we have written down some prompts to get you started!
Journal Prompts for the morning:
- What is your intention for the day?
- Have you planned your day? If not, make a to-do list now.
- What are three things you are thankful for today?
- How do you feel upon waking up this morning?
- What is something you’re going to do for yourself today?
- What are you thinking about right now?
- How do you want to feel at the end of the day?
- What are you looking forward to do today?
- What is one small thing you can do to brighten up your day?
4. Don’t forget: follow up is key!
To continue your morning after journaling, be sure to greet your body with things that you love. Whether it’s a fuzzy robe or a cup of joe, create habits that excite you and evoke your best self each day.
Want to see more journal prompts? Well, you can see them here in our journal prompts category.