Ever since late last year, I’ve been trying to change my Morning Routine around a little bit to put myself in the best state of mind possible to start my day. Though it hasn’t worked on some of the days, I do find that it has helped me calmer and more focused.

So what’s changed?

Mainly, I slowed things down a little bit.

I used to check my phone as soon as I wake up, jump out of bed, take a quick shower, get dressed and leave the house.

Now when I wake up, I meditate for a few minutes right away. This way, I don’t try to rush and get my day started like it was my last day on Earth.

After that, I do about 20 push-ups and 30 sit-ups to get the blood flowing and then I sit down at my desk to journal.

I’ve been journaling in the Morning for the past year or so and it has helped get rid of negative energy and whatever things that have been occupying my mind. It’s not the same as going to a therapist but it has helped me express my feelings since I don’t get to do that a lot.

Then, I make some coffee, hop in the shower, and get my day started.

This all takes about 15–20 minutes to complete — nothing crazy and it has had a positive impact on my day. My mind feels much clearer on the days that I am able to do these things.

I suggest you try to do the same or something similar, whatever works for you. We tend to start our crazy days frantically and forget to slow things down even for just a few minutes. Those few minutes can help you get in the right state of mind for the next 10–12 hours.

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The Morning Routine That Works For Me was originally published in The Ascent on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.