At dawn, when you have trouble getting out of bed, tell yourself: “I have to go to work — as a human being. What do I have to complain of, if I’m going to do what I was born for — the things I was brought into the world to do? Or is this what I was created for? To huddle under the blankets and stay warm?
— Marcus Aurelius
I have realised over time that having a consistent morning routine is important to my well-being and living better. It’s also about being pragmatic, there’s so much nonsense out there when it comes to articles, and youtube videos. I purposely chose to publish this article after the first few weeks of January because of the influx of “New Years resolutions” content we get thrown at us.
This routine might fit your lifestyle, and it also might not. Perhaps there is some middle ground we can all agree on, but for now it will act as a staple for having a realistic morning. As a note, in a way this newsletter acts a reminder for me to return to, and think about the way I should structure the morning to get the most out of my day. It feeds into my philosophy, and idealised way of living. So it’s important to be reminded of it.
Wake up sharp: Start the day by waking up early, ideally just a little bit before the sun rises, to make the most of the day. No snoozing, no lying in bed for an extra 10 minutes, regardless of the temperature, or what day it is. This allows for a sense of accomplishment and a head start on the day’s agenda.
Hydrate, and Reflection: Firstly, get some water or vitamin juice, to cure that dry mouth and groggyness. Then take a few minutes to reflect on your values and priorities, and how they align with my actions and intentions for the day. This can help you stay focused and on track throughout the day. Normally do this in the kitchen, as a I open up the house for another day of activity.
Movement: A light physical exercise for 10 or 15 minutes such as stretching, yoga or a walk outside can help to energise the body and focus the mind. Normally a walk or a jog outside for me, as I like a hit of fresh air, and sunlight if provided.
Journal, and get ready: Write down your thoughts and feelings, reflect on the previous day, and identify areas for improvement or growth. Express gratitude for the things in your life. I can also spend a while showering, getting fully dressed, and eating breakfast.
Start working: Take a few minutes to set up any tasks for the day, including what you want to accomplish and how you want to show up in the world.
Read or listen to Stoic literature: Reading or listening to Stoic literature can be a great way to start the day, as it can provide inspiration, wisdom, and guidance on how to live a virtuous and fulfilling life.
This routine can be adjusted to suit individual needs and preferences and to fit the time available. I can also reverse this, and complete some of these in the evening if I need to make amends for a different type of morning, scheduling issues.
The important thing is that my morning routine should be simple, consistent, and focus on cultivating virtue, wisdom, and inner peace to co-ordinate with my lifestyle, and doesn’t need to start at 5am to be considered valuable.
How much does your morning routine differ? Let me know.
And every morning think: ‘Memento vivere!’ 😊
This quote from Marcus is the most necessary for me. Equally, it is the hardest one for me to turn into practice. That may be why it sticks to my mind, glued in there.
So much time is wasted some mornings in a half-awake stupor. The one I definitely want to be better at is the early movement.