Whether you approach your time and working day like Elon Musk or are more like Jeff Bezos, running a small business is a little bit different to their view of the world.
A balanced life at home and at work requires effort. If only there was a pill that would instantly take away wasteful thoughts and improve our focus. However, we can easily make a start on rituals in preparation before work or warm up our mind and body for the rest of the day.
Rituals provide practitioners a sense of stability, serenity and routine in the midst of all kinds of commotion happening in our busy lives. Here are some morning ritual suggestions you can apply.
1. Make your bed
The military require their soldiers to undertake this ritual every day. While you might think that making the bed is impractical since you will only mess it up as soon as you hit the pillow at night, doing this brings more benefits than you think.
The organisation and the spotlessness of a bed that’s made is better for your concentration and frees your mind. It gives great comfort that even during the most trying of days, we come home to a bed that is ready for a good rest and some quiet time.
2. Active mind, active body
Activities like running, walking your dog or an exercise routine will help you feel refreshed and prepared in the morning. Get up a few minutes earlier than usual and allow the mind and body to become active.
3. Daily planning
Another excellent morning ritual is to plan the rest of your day just as you are starting it. Create your to-do list for the day. Check your calendar for appointments, due dates, errands, and other activities then sort by priority. Planning your day ensures that you address urgent tasks, don’t miss appointments or deadlines, and have a clear sense of accomplishment as you tick off each one on your list.
4. Practice meditation and yoga
Breathing exercises and putting mindfulness into practice will help you to maintain focus and ease frayed nerves. Yoga is also something you may want to consider because like meditation, this practice improves balance, enhances everyday energy levels, and calms you down.
Learning and knowledge are eternal springs that will never dry out for as long as you are willing to drink.
5. Read a book, listen to a podcast
The world’s most successful people are massive bibliophiles, and if you want to get their level of knowledge, then you need to adopt reading as a ritual. While listening to audiobooks and podcasts are accessible, reading the real thing gives you more advantages.
You can never read too many books! Learning and knowledge are eternal springs that will never dry out for as long as you are willing to drink.
6. Never miss breakfast!
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day – you are not allowed to miss it! Coffee is not enough. Make sure you eat a healthy and balanced meal before you start your day to give you the energy to take it on.
Meal planning can help make sure that you are not just going to end up eating eggs, bacon and toast five days a week. Make the time to sit down and plan your meals.
Being a business owner and entrepreneur does not give you the usual 9-5 work privileges. Oftentimes, you work odd hours to sustain your business; that’s why it’s important to establish a morning ritual to get a semblance of serenity as you hustle day in and day out.
