89 Ways to Start Your Work Day Off Right
Friday, August 7, 2009 at 09:30AM Starting your work day off right can make a big difference in what you get accomplished. I was curious to learn how other successful people started their day, so I put out a call for tips and ideas.
Here are a couple of things I learned. First, there is no right way to start your work day. You need to find something that works for you. Second, a daily routine can be fun and refreshing.
I also found that a ton of people attribute things that they do at home before they go to work with helping them to have a good day. Your mood and attitude can be greatly affected by your outlook on the day and those first things you do in the morning.
Read on to find some great tips on getting your day started on the right foot. And please, add your tips in the comments section.
1. Narrow Down on the To-Do List
Start with your to-do list, but don't look at the whole of the list. Narrow down what you realistically feellike you can accomplish in that day. Giving yourself a realistic goal can start your day off right. If you don't break down your task list, you flirt with overwhelming yourself. Your work will suffer if the light at the end of the tunnel is an oncoming train.
Neal Rohrbach
Idea Anglers
www.ideaanglers.com
@nrohrbach
Marketing Zealot, Graphic Designer and Entrepreneur who thinks outside the box, not off the shelf.
2. No Email Before 11
Taking a page from Tim Ferriss's book - don't start your day by checking email! This is a sure-fire way toget your priorities derailed right off the bat. It's a really hard habit to break, but...wait to check email until 11am. Anything that you can respond to at 8 you can respond to at 11, and this allows to you spend your morning focusing on your true priorities for the day. You have far fewer 'emergencies' every morning than you think.
Andrew Bennett
Deneki Outdoors
blog.deneki.com
@deneki
I run Deneki Outdoors, a company that owns and operates fly fishing lodges
3. Details, Then Exercise to Get Centered
I workout each morning. But before I do, I grab a coffee at my computer. First I check email to see if any fires erupted overnight. Then I check my social networking sites and blogs. I send a few emails, post a tweet or two, and tackle small, down and dirty tasks. I remind myself of commitments, meetings, and deadlines for the day. Then it's time for my run. This routine lets me wake up and get organized; the workout lets me get centered and focused. When I return to my desk I'm ready to roll.
Kim Murphy
KMA Copywriting
@Kmacopy
http://kmacopy.wordpress.com
4. Kickstart Your Workday the Night Before.
By nature I am a night owl. Obviously, this means that mornings in the office can be difficult for me - even with coffee in hand. My problem was not a lack of things to do, but where to begin. I finally committed to a new habit that has changed my work life.
The uneasy feeling I had each morning inspired me to create a master to-do list. I bought myself a little notebook (see Moleskine) and dedicated it to a list of tasks – nothing else. No meeting minutes, no notes, or anything else. And, it is not a calendar, as each item needs to be done today, or soon. If the task is to call someone, I include the phone number so I don’t have to take the time to look it up later. Completed tasks are marked with a highlighter (so you can still see the item you’ve accomplished after crossing it off your list).
Now, the key to all of this is to tidy up your to-do list at the end of each day. I copy any uncompleted items to a new, fresh page. When I arrive to my desk the next morning, I choose an item from my list and work on it until it is done, trying to complete at least one or two specific tasks before my phone starts ringing and before I get called into meetings. Phone calls and meetings only add to your list, so it feels nice to cross a few things off before that happens. Start your to-do list today, and you’ll hit the ground running tomorrow morning.
David Stys
Turnkey Sports & Entertainment
www.TurnkeySE.com
@dstys
Director of Product Development and iPhone Developer for InterfaceLIFT
5. Warm Up With Coffee and Twitter
My work day starts in front of my computer with a large cup of fresh-brewed coffee. I use my Twitter client to check in on overnight Twitter activity among the people I follow there. I follow links to interesting articles that they may have tweeted and respond to tweets as appropriate. Then I moderate the comments on the three blogs I manage. I might also write a quick blog post. Finally, I retrieve the e-mail that has come through overnight, check my voicemail, and respond as needed. I consider all this my "warm-up" for the work ahead of me each day, no matter what that work is.
Maria Langer
Freelance writer / Helicopter pilot
http://www.AnEclecticMind.com/
@mlanger
6. Look for Inspiration
Every morning I get up and view something inspiring. It may be a design article I find linked on twitter, a TED video (www.ted.com), a chapter out of a book, a design gallery, or a photo gallery. Somedays I do something different and go for a walk in the neighborhood or around the city and take photos. I am always on the look-out for neat textures I can photograph to use later in designs. I often switch around my ritual to keep it interesting.
Jenny Leonard - Razviti Creative
www.razviti.com/www.whereisjenny.com
@razviti
Jenny lives a creatively curious life by exploring the world she lives in, being adventurous, traveling, and running her creative design studio.
7. Time For Self Introspection
I take time for my physical, mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing before starting my workday. I do 10-12 minutes of stretching excercises concentrating on my back, then drink my coffee while doing about 10 minutes of spiritual reading, followed by a bit of journaling and a list of intentions for what I wish to accomplish during my day. In all, it takes about 30 minutes. By concentrating on myself first thing upon awakening, I don't resent the amount of time I then give over to my job and other people.
Libbe HaLevy
Internet Business Coach
www.WriteYourBrainsOut.com
8. Coffee in Bed
My day usually begins with coffee in bed with my Mr. This ritual allows me the time to be grateful for all that I have, gives me time to think about my day and what I want to accomplish, visualize the outcomes, and to enjoy relaxing into work in a way that doesn't feel hectic. I follow that with a nearly daily run, and a quick breakfast.
LaSara Firefox
Author, educator, advocate, coach, speaker.
http://www.lasarafirefox.com
@yoga_mama
9. Greet the Day in the Garden
Spring, Summer, and Fall the first things that greets me at work are our flowers. Taking the time to water and trim gives me time to plan the day. (Not that the day ever goes exactly that way, but it feels good.) (In the winter I rearrange crystalline structures around the front door and sidewalk.)
Monica M. C. Tombers
Associate Designer & Production Manager - Just So!
www.JustSoJewelry.com
@JustSoMonica
10. Avoid Your Email
Do not read your email first thing when you get to the office. Start your day with your most important activities or those that require a lot of creative, new ideas, and brainstorming, while your mind is still fresh. Don’t check your email until late morning or after lunch, after your most important tasks are complete.
Katie Hess Organic Alchemist: creating a worldwide ripple effect of love, joy, and inner beauty with exquisite organic body care products and chemical-free perfumes infused with vibrational flower essences for luxury green spas.
Lotus Wei Organics -www.lotuswei.com
@lotuswei
11. Write in a Journal
Start your day by journaling. Write about anything. Julia Cameron, author of The Artist's Way recommends that you write three pages to clear the clutter in your mind. She calls it Morning Pages. No time to write? Think about what you would write, if you had time, as you walk the dog, commute to work, feed the baby, or brush your teeth. Try it. Journaling lowers stress and improves the quality of life.
B. Lynn Goodwin
Writer Advice
www.writeradvice.com
In addition to running Writer Advice, I am the author of YOU WANT ME TO DO WHAT? Journaling for Caregivers, and I know first-hand that journaling works.
12. Start Happy
Here’s how I jump start my work day.
Opt for juice or a protein shake, instead of coffee. Caffeine is an artificial high with a sharp drop.
Wear clothes that fit and colors that flatter. When I look good, I feel good. When I feel good, my attention is sharper.
Kiss my husband goodbye and tell him to have a good day. Even if we argued, I don’t carry hurt feelings into my office or into my day.
The most pressing item of the morning is sitting in the middle of my desk. I jump start my work day by getting something accomplished, instead of checking email.
Becky McCrary Becky McCrary Speaks Becky is a speaker/trainer/author who inspires others to deliver fabulous service, build lasting relationships, and have more fun!
www.BeckyMcCrary.com
@BeckyMcCrary
13. Don't Start Too Quickly
I start each work day by not starting the work day. Before I do anything, I spend a few minutes focusing on just what I want to accomplish that day. Then I make sure it's all on the list, in order of priority and that I have everything necessary available. Then I start the work day.
Barry Maher
www.barrymaher.com
Barry is a motivational keynote speaker and workshop leader with expertise in communication, leadership, management and
sales.
@barrymaher
14. Start with the Right Ending
End the day before correctly. Spend 15 minutes before you leave the office writing your action plan for the first 45 minutes of the next day. Nothing great or earth shattering. Just one key item you have to accomplish to move a project forward. Since you end the day this way, your mind will be unconsciously working on the solution all night long. It also gives you closure on what you accomplished that morning. Just remember that to-do lists should not be 50 items long. Those are project checklists. Make a 1 thing that will have the largest impact on my business list. If you need someone else to be involved make sure they are confirmed for the next day.
Scott Lovingood
The Wealth Squad Inc
www.AskTheWealthSquad.com/blog/
@scottlovingood
15. Cross Quadrant
I’m a list-person. I’ve adapted a technique from Steven Covey’s “Highly Effective Habits” books where you aim to do a variety of items and not just the MUST-do urgent ones, but include the important but not as urgent tasks...the ones that matter in the long run. So here’s how I start my day:
I take a pad and I make a big cross down the middle...this reminds me of my Christian roots and gives me a bit of perspective...Then in the top left quadrant I write down the client/job related tasks that I Must Do before I leave today. In the bottom left I write down the “sales/planning tasks” that I Should Do in order to meet long term goals. In the top right quadrant I write the personal things I want to do whether its a volunteer project, a family errand, pick up a birthday gift or do something for myself; in the bottom right I list the administrative tasks that I Need To Do to keep the office going. In this way I have constructed a balance of the things in life—Must do, Want to Do, Should do, Need to Do...and each item or at least each area in my life gets some attention.
David Langton
Langton Cherubino Group
http://www.langtoncherubino.com
@langtoncherub
I run a design communication firm with Norman Cherrubino in NYC.
16. Read an Inspirational Quote
I subscribe to inspirational quotes of the day on my browser start up page. First thing every morning, I read the quote and apply it as the "answer" to whatever issue, big or small, that first pops into my head.
The inspirational quotes range from Aristotle to Keven Costner and are my way of centering, both mentally and spiritually, and starting each day from a positive, focused perspective.
It's like having the wisdom of the ages at your fingertips. Profound, easy, and free!
Helene Byrne
BeFit-Mom
www.befitmom.com
Helene Byrne, founder of BeFit-Mom, seeks support, motivate, and inspire women to lead their entire families to better health and wellness.
17. Cold Call to Warm Up
I’ve been in sales most of my career. I like to tackle the most distasteful part of any sales professional’s job first thing in the morning: prospecting. When I get in, I make three calls. Gets it out of my system and I feel I’ve already accomplished something before my day gets started. I then take ten minutes to organize my day, getting my priorities straight, using Stephen Covey’s 4 quadrants (Urgent/No – Important/Not). Works like a charm – except when a crisis comes walking in!
Craig James SVP Sales and Marketing
Chairman's View
www.chairmansview.com
18. Take 5
To start your work day off with new ideas, take 5 first. When you first wake up - before your feet ever hit the floor - your mind is open and receptive to ideas and inspiration. Take five minutes to consider your upcoming day and be quietly open to ideas.
"I have learned to set my alarm for 5 minutes early and when that alarm goes off, I hit the snooze button and use those minutes to just let ideas for the day come to me. Yes, sometimes I fall back asleep but just as often I get a fresh idea.”
Mary Ellen Psalits is a Certified Nutritional and Wellness Consultant, activational Well Being speaker, newspaper columnist and author of Spiritual Vitamins: 12 Essential Nutrients for Women. www.ThePossibilitiesGroup
19. Fire Up the Music
One of the best ways I find to start the day is with some inspiring music, something that reminds me of all I am capable of.
I like “I sing the body electric” from Fame. Both the music and the lyrics fire me up for the day.
Kirsten Mahoney
Insight Out Life Coaching
http://www.insightoutlifecoaching.com
20. Listen to Positive Music
I’m self employed and work from home so the first thing I do is roll out of bed, make some tea, and turn on some Ben Harper, Donovan Frankenreiter or Jack Johnson. Listening to musicians that sing about positive change reminds me that there are many people in the world that have made a facilitated positive change and made a living while doing what they love. This gets me in the right frame of mind to attack the l-o-n-g list of things to do. If I need an extra motivation for the day I drag myself to a 6:30 a.m. Bikram yoga or Muay Thai class…when I get through one of those classes I feel like the rest of the day is a piece of cake.
Adriana Herrera I’m a twenty-something social enterprise entrepreneur that believes I can use for-profit business to have a positive impact on the world. http://www.hernicheproducts.com
http://www.eracommunications.net
@Adriana_Herrera
21. Prioritize the List
I am a slave to my online scheduling program, Toodledo. Toodledo has multiple ways to sort your tasks, projects, and goals, can time your work for record keeping purposes like billable hours, and syncs with Google Calendar (which then syncs with my phone).
Every morning I read over all my tasks and prioritize for the day before getting to work. I rearrange and re-prioritize the list every day according to my schedule and upcoming deadlines. I have tripled my productivity since I developed this routine. I waste less time because I know what to focus on and what to leave for another day.
Sally Albright
Albright Strategies, LLC
http://sallyalbright.com/http://hiresallyalbright.com
@SallyAlbright
Marketing and Communications Consultant in Washington, D.C.
22. Show Up Happy
Before going in to the office, ask yourself how you want to “show up” today? Are you willing to accept being the grouch who woke up on the wrong side of the bed? Would you rather be the pleasant person with whom people enjoy working? Make a conscious choice in the morning before you face the world or least before you step foot in the office.
Jennifer Mounce Coach Effect, Inc.
http://www.coacheffect.com/http://companies.to/coacheffect
Jennifer Mounce coaches mid- and senior level managers on the skills, abilities, and behaviors needed to create excellent workplaces and have careers and lives they love.
23. Start with a Little Exercise
I almost always start my workday with some exercise – whether it’s a stretching routine that my chiropractor gave me or walking to the furthest grocery store to buy skimmed milk for my breakfast cereal. Once I’ve done the exercise routine, I eat my breakfast because I read that eating after exercising burns more calories than eating beforehand.
Phyllis Harber-Murphy CAP
More Than 9 2 5 Virtual Assistance
www.morethan925.com
24. Keep Positive
My great mornings are characterized by planning the night before on things that need to get done in the morning. I am a big fan of "Life is Short" and every minute counts, is worth more than money & can never be recouped. If I don't waste time in the morning and wake up taking care of things and am productive, I feel great, and it builds enough momentum to last me the rest of the day. My wonderful mornings are also characterized by eating fruits (bananas, blueberries, etc.) and I am physically charged with food that's full of life. When driving to work, I don't listen to the radio: Usually the news broadcasts dreadful, negative news that will really affect your positivity. Instead, I use and say positive affirmations, such as "Today will be a great day. I am blessed to have an opportunity to make a difference!" and the rest of the office drive will be quiet, letting those words soak in. I feel that those affirmations, when said with belief and passion, program my mind to act accordingly and bring them to fruition.
Paul Tran
Focal Point Financial & Insurance Services
http://www.linkedin.com/in/focalpoint
@paulttran
I'm someone who loves people, life, & the limited time we have on this Earth!
25. Read Something Positive
I start my workday by reading something inspirational at breakfast—maybe a couple pages of a book about a place I want to visit, or a Chicken Soup story, or Eckhart Tolle, and so forth. I want to feel energized, optimistic, and enthusiastic when I walk over to my desk and computer at my home office. I want to be in positive momentum in the morning.
I do NOT read the newspaper at breakfast anymore. I save it for lunch.
Esther JantzenWriter, educator
http://plusitbook.com
@JantzenE
Adventuresome; interested in family literacy and parenting education
26. Reflect, Rank, Start
1. Reflect on the day just finished and the priorities for the next workday. This can be done in the evening as the workday concludes (for the next day) or in the morning as one arrives at the desk.
2. Rank the priorities you identify and specifically choose one as a top priority. Making progress on this project, task, or issue will be the primary goal for the day.
3. Begin your workday with an uninterrupted period of work on this top priority project. This means deferring e-mail and voice-mail triage for a bit to avoid being dragged into reactive mode (and responding to everyone else’s priorities)
The day always goes better when it begins with substantive progress on a key task. These three steps allow that progress to occur while still leaving room for the normal press of business. They save you from being stuck into a responsive mode from the moment you walk in the door.) Making progress first thing also makes it easier to return to that key priority to do more work – resuming work from earlier in the day feels different than just getting started.
Anne Clarke provides executive and personal coaching supporting her clients in achieving success however they define it – with a bit of good old fashioned la dolce vita throw in.
@ABClarke
www.profiles.google.com/annec08/www.setting-and-achieving-goals.com
27. Take a Walk
I like to take a 4-mile walk every morning. Walking really clears my head, gets those endorphins pumping, and helps me focus for the workday! I can think things through, narrow down some priorities for the day, or just relax and listen to my ipod. I’ve noticed that my week goes a lot better if I start each morning this way!
Danielle Friesen
Walking Adventures International
www.walkingadventures.com
28. Take Small Steps with a Partner
It is easy to let all the little day-to-day work get in the way of accomplishing the big dreams. The first thing I do on Monday mornings is have a phone meeting with my accountability partner - we are both solo-preneurs. We each identify 1 or 2 major projects from our master to-do lists (all the big things we want to accomplish) that we want to work on for the week. We commit to only 1 or 2 actions for each major project for the week. We set the rest of the master to-do list aside. It is basically an acknowledgement that tasks (one step actions), the unexpected urgent and important opportunities that come out of left field and routines (all the little things that have to be done) take up the majority of our time. By picking only one or two actions on each of one or two projects we find that we feel less overwhelmed with to-do items and start each day in a more balanced, energized place. We used to lose a lot of time and energy to 'beating ourselves up' about all the things we needed to do but were not getting done. By creating a short, narrow, realistic focus for action at the start of the week, we both accomplish much more each day. Because we tackle the big project commitments first each day, getting to work is fun. Both of us are making solid forward progress on our big dreams and that fuels our energy to look forward to each work day.
Susan Lannis, Time Liberation Agent
ORGANIZATION Plus! Inc.
Making work simple, fast and easy to help you liberate time!
www.LiberateTime.com
29. The Family that Wakes Together...
Starting Your Work Day Off Right begins the night before, so we have all of our kids in bed by 8:30 pm 8 (kid's age range 8-15). This permits mom and dad some alone time to connect, catch up on the days events and plan for tomorrow.
I'm at the gym by 5am so I can workout and be home by 6:30 am, we have all the kids up by 6:30am, this allows us to enjoy each others company with out being distracted by anything else. We play games, read and have breakfast all usually by 8:00 am.
So most of the really important stuff is done by 8:00 am, it's kinda like an Army commercial, we get more done by 8 am then most people do all day. My wife and I have been doing this system with all 5 of our kids and it has allowed us to share many great memories playing and sharing as a family.
Side note - parents ask us How do you get your teenagers to go to bed so early? Answer: we wake them up at 5:30 in the morning.
You Were Created to Succeed!
Bert Martinez
www.bertmartinez.com
30. A Fun Little Routine
Every day I make some turkey sausages in the company lunchroom’s microwave for breakfast, and brew some coffee, and when I come into our office, I say to my co-worker in a cheery-little-boy voice: “Today’s the day I MAKE A DIFFERENCE!” Some breakfast, a little caffeine, and some fun attitude all combine to start the day off right.
Mark McLaughlin, PR Specialist
Nehlsen Communications
www.ncpr.com
@prguru4u
I believe that life is all about choices, and a person really can make the choice to be happy and successful.
31. A Cock-a-Doodle-Doo!
While the first part of my jumpstart to the workday is fairly typical and involves making a strong pot of coffee, the second part is probably not. My home office is on a farm, and so I rely on my roosters to let me know a new day has started. I open up the doors to the coop, walk around the barn and pastures to check on all the animals, and by the time I've finished my morning rounds the pot of coffee is ready! It's a lovely way to remind myself that the whole world does not revolve around the Internet.
Anne Shroeder
Language Works: Web Sites in Your Language
http://www.language-works.com
@mrnewmangoat
Anne Shroeder develops clean and easy-to-manage web sites for small businesses and non profit organizations.
32. Positive Conversations Only
I’m a rather positive person, and I live with roommates, so a trick I have is not to talk about anything negative or anything that may bring on stress in the early morning hours. That means no talk about work (until I step foot into the office) and no discussion about how stressed I may be from something personal or work-related. I do this so that the energy I put forth at the start of the day is positive (maybe I’ll discuss the news, or a funny show I saw last night.) It just has to be a light subject because I think during quiet mornings people influence each other more than they think and their senses are a bit more heightened. Then I turn on music that gets me going and singing!
Julie Ma lives and works in Public Relations in Portland, OR and loves fashion, event planning and traveling.
www.cmdagency.com
@JulieMa
33. Work on Yourself First
The best way to start the business day right is to start your personal day right. Develop good morning habits, such as getting enough sleep, learning to skip the snooze button, and eating a healthy breakfast. Avoiding coming into the work grumpy, tired, and hungry, will ensure you can bring your top game every day.
Rivka Kawano
Life Train
www.LifeTrainLLC.com
@LifeTrain
President of a multimedia company, wife, and busy mother of two boys under age two, balancing everything throughout the day has become an interesting mix of art and science.
34. 30 Minute Meditation
I start my day off with a 30-minute meditation. It always sets up the day beautifully.
I focus on all that I am grateful for in my life. I then focus on what I’d like to improve upon, from a positive standpoint. I.E., “Isn’t it interesting that I am continuing to have trouble with money. How can I create more? Who can help me manage it better?” I then give it up to my subconscious and it will begin to seek out the right resources for me.
I write down all my goals for the day. I also do this for each business quarter, for the year, for 5 years out, etc. I have found that if we write it down, it happens.
Most of my days flow pretty easily as a result of this. Even when there are crises, I am able to deal with them better coming from this solid place of confidence and trust that I am in control as much as possible.
Dr. Nancy Irwin, PsyD, C.Ht. Psychotherapy/Clinical Hypnosis
Speaker/Author
www.drnancyirwin.com www.makeayou-turn.com
@DrNancyIrwin
35. Schedule by Calendar, Not To-Do List
I insert some personal and health time first thing in the day before office time, so my energy and metabolism are up, and I've had some quality time with family if the rest of the day goes kablooey. I work well in the mornings, so I make sure I've taken a look at the tasks I want to accomplish that week and that my day reflects activity on those tasks in the mornings, if my appointment schedule permits. But I like to get small stuff out of the way first so it's not a distraction. However, the small stuff has to be limited to no more than 20 - 30 minutes, otherwise the morning is in danger of being unwisely spent. I also review my calendar repeatedly throughout the day so I can re-jigger it as needed and still accomplish what I need to. I don't use a to-do list, I schedule the most important to-dos directly into time slots on my calendar.
Kerul Kassel
Executive Coach and Award-winning author of Stop Procrastinating Now and Productive Procrastination
www.Procrastivity.com
@kerul
36. Work Out Before Work
My trick is to stretch & workout first thing in the AM. Doing this first thing does a number of things:
-It gets the idea of 'work out' drudgery out of the way
-It wakes up my body and helps me to keep focus the rest of the day
-Working out first thing also jump starts the calorie burn for entire day-Working out also makes me feel confident in tackling other the other challenges in the day.
Lisa Stewart
CREATIVEGoddess
@ecstewart
ECStewart Collections & CalligraphyPets
37. Skip Email, Not Breakfast
I start every day with a bowl of cereal and milk and a piece of fruit to help me focus on a plan. I check my planner for the list of tasks for the day and prioritize them, and I meet with anyone on the team briefly to layout a plan for more complicated tasks. A big key to keeping my morning on track is that I generally don't open my email until at least 10 am. I've learned in the past that the steady flow of email has a tendency to derail my creative process. I also try to keep any heavy thinking and brainstorm sessions within the first couple of hours of work. It's the time that my brain seems the freshest, and a great brainstorm is better than a cup of coffee in the morning to keep you invigorated throughout the day.
Tad Dobbs
Creative Squall
http://www.creativesquall.com
@creativesquall
I am the owner and creative director of Creative Squall, a design firm specializing in integrated brand experiences.
38. Steer Clear of the Computer
When you first get up, maybe you jump in the shower. Maybe you get a cup of coffee from the kitchen. Maybe you want to do a quick check of your Facebook profile. Well. DON’T DO IT! My tip for starting the work day off right: don’t you DARE look at your computer at home in the morning. Do not sit down at your desk; you will be tempted. Watch the news. Read a book. Run around the block. Whatever you do, don’t do computer stuff before setting foot in the office. There must be separation of work and home. Therefore, home should be the place where you prepare to stare at a computer all day; it should NOT be the place where you actually do it.
Sara Dobie
Public Relations
http://saradobie.wordpress.com
I’m a PR Coordinator in Charleston, SC, and I’m suicidal until three cups of coffee every day. (Aren’t YOU?)
39. Do What You Love
I am a fifty-one year old retired stonemason fully engaged now in a second career as a writer.
During my apprenticeship as a mason, I was laying brick on a college dorm about three stories up and sweating up a storm, all flying elbows, mortar, brick, motion and curses, trying to keep with the old guy, white-haired and my teacher. He hardly seemed to be working, but was laying twice the brick I was. He stopped me for a minute and said, "Look around for a minute." It was a beautiful May day in rural Ohio. The college was an arts college and therefore seventy-percent female and most of them seemed to out strolling the wide, white walks and in their summer dresses as if for the first time. The old guy said, "If you don't love this, go do something else."
That was the single best lesson I learned -- ever. Once I got in my bones that I loved being a mason, I never had to set an alarm clock, and, as a writer now, I still don't. I beat the sun to my desk and by the time the coffee has percolated I am at work.
Tom Badyna
40. Feed Your Body and Your Body Will Take Care of You
Simple. Put down a base of protein and fat to keep your blood sugars level, no spikes, no hunger at 10 am. A steady, solid way to start the day. Choose organic whole foods. 9 servings fruits and veg later. But to begin, eat a solid breakfast. Remember eggs cook in 3 minutes. 2 eggs. bacon, sausage, cheese, yogurt. You get the idea.
Forget cold cereal. Don't even talk about donuts.
Feed your body right and your body will take care of you.
Linda West EckhardtJames Beard award winning cookbook author
co-author The Silver Cloud Diet
It's not a lifestyle, it's a life.
http://www.silverclouddiet.com
@silverclouddiet
41. Email Can Wait
1) Do NOT start out opening / responding to email. Instead, spend the first part of your day listing the 2 or 3 (at the most) top things that, no kidding, you must, and are committed to, accomplishing that day.
2) DO these 2-3 tasks now. (That way, you won’t wind up at the end of the day with that horrible feeling that you worked very hard but got nothing done.)
3) Schedule regular email time slots for only 2-3 times per day. Put an auto-responder on your email account for awhile telling people you are doing this. Trust me, people will quickly get used to getting responses in a few hours instead of instantly. (To train yourself to do this, turn off any “you’ve got mail” pop-ups!)
Sue Lindgren Hawkes
is the founder and CEO of YESS! - Your Extraordinary Success Strategies, Inc. (www.sayyess.com), a world-class coaching and training organization offering customized programs and coaching certification.
@SueHawkesYESS
42. Stretch!
As a health and fitness expert, the most important tips I can provide are to always begin your day with a nice stretch exercise and a sit down to enjoy a healthy breakfast. And while sitting at your desk all day, try neck extensions, upper body forward bends and in-flight calve stretches.
Marta Montenegro
CEO, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of SOBeFiT Magazine
www.sobefitmagazine.com @sobefitmagazine
Marta is a Venezuelan-born journalist, author, financial analyst, fitness expert and professor at Florida International University.
43. Must Do Stickies
Always, always start your day off with a list of things to do and put it in priority order. I then post the top three things on my list on a seperate piece of paper and post it to my computer. No matter what, I promise myself I will get those three things done even if I don't have time to do anything else.
I also set a timer for 45 minutes early in the morning to do my social networking. Once the timer goes off, I try not to get sucked back into it until the end of the work day when I'll spend another 15 minutes. Social media is so important these days, but you can't let it monopolize your time too much.
Josephine Geraci
Founder & President
My Mom Knows Best, Inc.
www.MyMomKnowsBest.com
44. Buddy Up and Exercise
Two buddies and I start with an early morning work-out. We run Memorial Park’s three-mile trail on M, W and F and swim or lift weights on T and Th in the parks department’s gym and pool. We love it so much, it carries over into the weekend where we’ll run a double on Saturday and sometimes do one more on Sunday. For us, the most important thing is the buddy system--the guilt of skipping a day assures we get up and we push each other harder.
Mike Barone
Marketing and Branding for Green Bank
www.greenbank.com
With a great wife, two ants-in-the-pants kids, and hobbies (car racing, vintage audio equipment) I’m always on the go.
45. Start with Some Yoga
One of my rituals before the busyness of the day whooshes me off is to get out of bed and straightaway do 2 or 3 yoga stretches (my dog, Dax, taught me this). Then I think of and articulate 5 or 6 things I am grateful for. Sometimes basic things, sometimes unique things. I feel this cements my mindset in a positive fashion to influence how the rest of my day goes, and gives me perspective, even if things do go awry.
Christine Harmel
Digital Yenta, The Interactive Resource, Inc.
www.interactiveresource.com
@christineharmel,@digitalyenta
Christine Harmel is the Digital Yenta, a Connector for people, capital, and businesses.
46. Meditation Makes Time
Take 15 minutes to meditate. If I don't do that I spend the whole day thinking I don't have enough time to do everything. When I do there is always enough time!
Make a list of things to do BUT I only include those things that I truly know I can do that day. The other things I put on another list for the future.
David Couper
Career development and transition coach
www.davidcoupercoach.com
@DavidACouper
47. Visualize a Successful Day
I start my work day by staying in bed a moment and visualizing what I want to accomplish that day. I actually see myself going through my day successfully. It works really well and it’s a great excuse to stay under the covers longer. I then get up and play with the dog and walk him. Walking syncs your left and right brain and gets your body moving. I speak on body language and on creativity so the exercise helps tremendously. I walk for 45 minutes so I have time for creative problem solving and a cell phone call to a friend or loved one. Then I get to work and put my goals on the computer, check my emails.
Patti Wood
Communication Dynamics -Professional Speaker, body language expert, Author
@bodylanguage_pw
48. Morning Pages
Several years ago, I worked my way through TheArtist's Way and one process in particular helped me
greatly - Morning Pages. Every morning begins with acup of coffee flavored with decadent creamer, which Idrink while writing three pages in longhand. The feelof the ink flowing from the 24k gold nib of my Watermanfountain pen onto the creamy lined pages of myleather bound journal are something I look forward toevery morning. Morning Pages are simply stream ofconsciousness, whatever you want to write. The ideais to empty your brain, to put all your worries,fears and dreams onto the page so your brain isclear. Occasionally, I've gotten out of the habit ofwriting each morning but then I find myself crankyand lacking in creativity. There's something aboutthat morning "brain dump," coupled with the feelingof pampering myself that make Morning Pages a perfectway to start the day.
Elle Robb
Writer
www.ellerobb.com
@heymom1968
Elle Robb is a writer who lives in central Missourion a small hobby farm with her husband and daughter.
49. Clear the Inbox First
I start my work day off by doing stretches out on our balcony and then clearing the decks of e-mail before I do anything else (except turn on the coffeemaker!). Getting rid of junk mail, responding to my various discussion lists and reading the Washington Post online wakes up my brain and gives me a sense of connection to the world; it also leaves me free to focus on real work for the next few hours. Then I make a point of sitting down with my husband, who's retired, to read the New York Times and local newspaper over my second cup of coffee and a snack. I work at home and can be locked on to the computer for several hours at a time, so that ritual is very important to us - and is still a treat even 10 years since he retired!
Ruth E. Thaler-Carter
Freelance writer/editor
www.writerruth.com
@WriterRuth
"I can write about anything!"™
50. Love and Tea
I love mornings and my job, so I don't have a tough time getting started.
Each morning I make a carafe of tea to have right by my computer. Before I sit down to work, I do a short--5 minute--meditation. Then, I briefly go through my e-mails before I start working on my blog
Michele C. Hollow, blogger/owner of Pet News and Views www.PetNewsandViews.com /www.MicheleCHollow.com
I am a freelance writer/editor specializing in pets and wildlife.
@michelechollow
51. Program for Positivity
The work day begins when you wake up even though you aren’t getting paid for it!
When you awaken you begin mentally programming your day! The best way to get off on the right foot is BEFORE you step out of bed onto that foot. Each day, once I am sufficiently awake, I begin by focusing on a very powerful emotion…. GRATITUDE.
Many people awaken and begin to think about of their problems. This is our autopilot thinking that programs us for stress and negativity. Scientists tell us we have up to 100,000 thoughts per day and 70% are repeating and negative. To take back the reins of control, the best thing to do to counter the automatic negativity or ‘terribilizing’ is to begin your day with a phrase or thoughts of gratitude. “I am thankful for this day” is easy or sometimes I say, “All is well” or even “This is a wonderful day.”
Kathryn Tristan
Research scientist on the faculty of Washington University School of Medicine and author of the book “Anxiety Rescue – Simple Strategies to Stop Fear from Ruling Your Life."
www.anxietyrescuebook.com
52. Healthy Breakfast
One word: breakfast! slow burning energetic food with protein is the best way to go: eggs, smoothies with hemp or chia seeds (or the dreaded protein powder), unsweetened oatmeal with fresh fruit, yogurt with fruit, berries and bee pollen.
These are all great breakfasts that will power up your day and you won't even need the coffee
Meredith Sobel
Holistic Health Counselor
Sobel Wellness
www.sobelwellness.com
@sobelwellness
53. The Key is Breakfast
The key to starting the day off right is to have a fantastically helpful breakfast, then plan the day, and get a brutal workout out of the way. Then, it's simply a matter of executing your to do list for the rest of the day!
Dan Nainan
Professional Comedian/Voiceover Talent
www.nainan.com
54. Zen
I start each day with Zen sitting and walking. That way, there's no artificial difference between work and play.
Gary Gach
Native Californian, loves swimming, haiku, music, & the unknown
author - editor - teacher - speaker
http://word.To
@nobodhi
55. Coffee and Cardio
I start off the work day with a cup of coffee and a workout. One hour of lifting at the gym, running/cardio or any physical exercise clears the mind, burns up stress and gives me the energy to take on the challenges of the day.
Jim Fennell
i3 Marketing Group, Inc.
www.goi3.com
@jimfennell
56. 10 Minutes of Meditation
I went through Shambala Meditation training a couple of years ago—basically meditation for all us folks who don’t sit on a mountain all day but have to sit in traffic a lot! Meditation for every day living. Now, if I begin my day with 10 minutes of meditation, I start the day calm, easily prioritize all my work, focus on what’s essential and critical, feel more inspired and motivated, and just plain get more done. Plus, I find that it helps me think of more creative ideas and positive solutions. The most important effect, though, is that it focuses me on other people’s well being, so I help make other people’s work days better: clients, customers and employees.
Tonya McKinney
Marketing 2 Revenue
go2market consulting
http://tungle.me/Tonya
@TonyaMcKinney
57. Get a Good Routine
Starting early and with a routine is a great way to start off any day, but especially a business day. And, like good old Ben Franklin told us….the early bird does, in fact, catch the worm. I turn on my computer, check my email, and then I “power” walk with my dog – for about an hour. Seems trite, but the days go much more smoothly because of it. I am fit – both mentally and physically. On these walks I think, prepare lists, solve problems and sometimes come up with brilliant ideas for my clients.
Lina Barbieri
Private Public Relations Consultant, Northeastern Pennsylvania
http://www.LinaBarbieri.com
@LinaBarbieri
Lina Barbieri is a private public relations consultant specializing in public and media relations, marketing and social media strategies for a group of diverse customers.
58. Some Deep Breaths
I always start my day off with the Basic Abdominal Breath.
Sit with your spine straight, breathe in through your nose, hold the breath in for as long as is comfortable, exhale through your nose, hold the breath out as long as is comfortable, and repeat. Don’t see how long you can hold your breath - the point is to work in your comfort zone. In about 3 minutes, you’ll feel great! This breath is also very effective in re-centering and re-orienting throughout the day. I love it, because it's free, available, and just about anyone can do it!
Katherine Zitterbart
bustyourstress.com / katherinezitterbart.com
@kayteezee
Creative Living Consultant, sharing wisdom for living your best life ever, because feeling bad feels bad.
59. Inspired Focus
Starting the workday right means beginning with an inspired focus. I suggest 10 minutes of centering meditation. Choose a thought or word that is meaningful to you - inspiration, service, connection, etc., find a quiet spot, close your eyes and focus your attention and breathing simply on that word and how it applies to your goals for the day. Let the thoughts float over you, clearing your mind of all else. With a focus on matters at hand, within a focused framework, the possibilities become endless and inspiration flows.
Deborah Darlington, M.A., D.Div.
President and CIO - Chief Inspiration Officer
InspirationInProgress.com
60. 30 Minute Wake Up Walk
Walking at least a half-hour - a time to reflect, think about the day and get the juices flowing. This small amount of exercise each day will make you feel better and ready to take on the day. Keeps you healthy and maintains your weight.
Krystal McAllister
Heel Shields - the drivers shoe protector
http://www.theheelshield.com
@HeelShields
IT Professional turned Patent Owner and Entrepreneur creator of The Heel Shield
61. Exercise Early
Get to the pool (or gym) by 5:30. Exercise for an hour. Socialize. Shower. By 7, you're cleaner, healthier, happier and ready to start the day while others are just reaching to turn off their alarm clocks!
Marlene Caroselli, Ed.D.
Keynoter, corporate trainer, author of 60 business books and one e-book, Principled Persuasion, named a Director’s Choice by Doubleday Book Club when first released
www.caroselli.biz
62. Yoga Class
I start my day (2x a week) off with a Sunrise Yoga class. It starts at 5:45 am and runs until 7am. The class has a core group who are committed to the class and to each other, and we have an inspiring teacher. It's a truly amazing way to start off my day.
Lisa Cooper
Elisa Tucci Contemporary Art
www.elisatucciart.com
@LCooperArt
I left 20+ years of advertising to start my own business - an art gallery/dealership with amazing art and a philanthropic element
63. Visualize Accomplishment
Start the day with a five minute visualization of how you want your day to go. Imagine in detail any key events such as important meetings, presentations, etc., and visualize them unfolding exactly as you want them to unfold. FEEL the emotional sense of satisfaction, accomplishment, etc., that you associate with your key accomplishments. This type of mental rehearsal prepares your subconscious mind for the day's upcoming events. You'll be amazed at how much more prepared you are for the day, and how events of your day unfold the way you imagined them much more frequently when you practice this.
Cindy Locher, CHT
ChangeWorks Hypnosis, clinical hypnotherapy
www.mn-hypnosis.com
@cindy_locher
Cindy Locher, CHT is a clinical hypnotherapist with a private practice in Minneapolis, MN and teaches clients all over the world how to improve their lives through the power of their minds.
64. Take Ten
1. Take ten minutes each day to define your purpose, redefine your day's direction and create an action plan to direct your performance and achieve your goals.
2. Create a "powerthought" (quotes) file; select one at random and associate it to the events you have planned for the day. See the day from many angles to maximize your impact and your contribution.
3. Write three things you appreciate about your (boss, spouse, work, life) and dwell on each to see their value and impact on your life and performance. Learn to see and find the good in life, work and in others around you.
4. Create a "got to do" and a "nice to do" list to help prioritize you day. Get the urgent things defined and done first.
5. Find your favorite and "get you fired up" author (I like Steve Farber, Sherwin Nuland, Tom Peters). Read two to three pages of one of their works and relate it to how they would approach your day. What lessons do they have for you? How could this fire you up to provide a greater impact.
6. List 10 things you are grateful for - different from the previous days (these can be about work, home, family, opportunities, challenges, etc). Be sure to say thank you if your list involves people; not only does fire up your day, but it fires up others as well.
The tips are different - the concept is the same. Commit 10 minutes each morning to your mental health, strategic direction, a focus on happiness, and a concentration on performance. When you direct it, it happens and work and life feel more in control.
Jay Forte
Humanetrics LLC
www.FireUpYourEmployees.com / www.HumanetricsLLC.com
@JayForte
I am a performance consultant and workplace coach, specializing in helping managers, employees, women in management and individuals learn to improve their performance and maximize their impact in work and life.
66. Prepare the Body and Mind
Coffee, prayers, journal, two mile walk, strength training and protein breakfast. Body and mind are ready for the opportunities and challenges of the day.
Tina Wick
http://www.gpurse.com
@greenpurse
I design and produce purses, bags, home decor and accessories from vintage and reclaimed materials.
67. Grab That First Thought
1. First Thought. Notice the very first conscious thought of the day...it often packs the unconscious wisdom unveiled in the night.
2. Meditation. This is the main event in life, not an add-on. Meditation connects you with boundlessness, so the day melts in your hands.
3. Plan your day, if you did not do it the day before: put your to-do list into your calendar so blocks of time are committed to specific actions. Big focus boost.
Marcos Polanco
Clearshore Management Services
www.clearshore.us
R&D nearshoring specialist, aspiring to become full-time meditator. Former startup founder in Silicon Valley and economic developer in Puerto Rico
68. Its the Day Before Vacation
I say begin everyday as if it were the last day before vacation. This is actually one of the rules on my book "Starting Over - 25 Rules When You've Bottomed Out." I start the day with 20 minutes of Yoga. It puts me in a calm state that lasts througout the day. When I get to the office I begin by opening my Work Journal - a simple Word document with three columns for 1) Work Goals, 2) Identity Goals, and 3) Did I accomplish these and how does it feel. Then I add to or edit the list and start working on the biggest things I want to accomplish for the day. I do not check phone messages or return email until I have accomplished significant progress on my lead goal for the day.
Mary Lee Gannon
www.StartingOverNow.com
@StartingOverNow
69. Do the Top Six
I organize my day with the Top 6- the highest leveraged activities which will produce the greatest results towards my work goals, whether it's create more revenue, find creative solutions for existing clients, get new clients, prepare for an upcoming speech, write chapters for the new book. Everything else is secondary to the top 6.
Snowden McFall
President, Fired Up!
www.firedupnpow.com
Professional speaker, business expert on stress and motivation, and the author of 4 books, including Fired Up! How to Succeed by Making Your Dreams Come True; her new book on stress is due out in 2010.
70. Focus on the Positive
The way I start my day off on the right foot is to think of something positive that is happening in my life. It could be looking at the stars, watching my daughters sleep or laying next to my wife in bed before I get up. I think there are so many negative stories in the news today and it is easy to feel unhappy. I like focusing on the positive right when I get up to put me in a good frame of mind as I start my day.
Danny Kofke
Special Education Teacher and Author of "How To Survive (and perhaps thrive) On A Teacher's Salary"
www.dannykofke.blogspot.com
@dannykofke
71. Do Some Creative Work Before Work
Here's a before the work day ritual that gets my work day off to the right start!
Taking good care of myself so I can do my best work is one of my mantras. Every day, before work, I do at least one of my 10 Delicious Daily Habits... If I am working in my Creativity Suite for the morning* (sounds so much more fun and inviting than "Home Office") I take 15 - 20 minutes to continue work on a craft project - Sewing quilt pieces would be a favorite choice because I can get a lot done in a short amount of time. Currently I am working on new designs for quilted notebook covers as a fundraising item for my Leukemia & Lymphoma Society/Team in Training fundraising goal... What a great way to start the day - doing some I love, that's creative, and for a good cause!
Jill Greenbaum
College Coach to Teens (and their parents)
www.majorinyou.com
@jillgreenbaum
Playing/Nurturing my creative self at the beginning of every day gives me the energy to thrive personally and professionally.
72. Prepare In Your Mind
In the morning while half awake and half asleep I go over my duties for the day and imagine them all going well.
This helps get me into a positive mood and to remind myself of what is on my to do list.
I also exercise first thing in the morning.
Laurence J. Stybel, Ed.D.
Executive in Residence
Department of Management & Entrepreneurship
Sawyer School of Business
www.suffolk.edu
73. Look for Inspiration and Celebration
Inspiration, celebration – and then everybody else. So to start the day I sit at my desk and look at an inspirational picture or read some inspirational words. Then I put on some perfume or aromatherapy oil or eat some blueberries or a piece of chocolate. Then I turn on the computer. When the emails come in, I read the inspirational ones first, then a couple from friends or that excite me. Then I start work. Whenever I feel stuck or down, I do it all again.
Maggy Whitehouse
Pure Prosperity – abundance coaching.
www.pureprosperity.com
@maggywhitehouse
I’m the author of 14 books on spirituality and prosperity and a workshop leader and coach.
74. Get a Headstart
I get up early, am at the computer between 6:15-6:30 most days. The first thing I do is check HARO; answering a media query or three before most people are even awake sets a good productive tone.
Then after doing some email, I'll often put some time in either on a client copywriting project or a business-growth project. So by 7:30 or so I'm beginning to feel pretty good about my day. Then I take a break, have breakfast, help my kids out the door for school, come back and work in 40-90 minute bursts all day long.
Shel Horowitz
Author, 7 books.
http://www.frugalmarketing.com / http://www.frugalfun.com
Covered in Bottom Line * Cleveland Plain Dealer * Home Office Computing * Christian Science Monitor * NY Times * Boston Globe * Fortune Small Business * L.A. Times * Woman's Day * over 200 radio stations...
@ShelHorowitz
75. Grind the Beans the Night Before
Starting out my day right begins the night before when I the grind the beans and get the coffeemaker ready to go when I get up in the morning....otherwise, I'm trying (without the benefit of caffeine) to be very quiet come morning while doing this simple chore...and for some reason...it makes me irritable....but today, I had the beans ready....and just hit the switch and now am happily working with coffee by my side!
Michele Howe, author
Still Going It Alone: Mothering with Faith and Finesse
Single Parenting Columnist
http://www.bizymoms.com/experts/michele-howe/index.html
76. Take it Easy
My morning rituals evolve, so I'm relaxed about any routine and go with the flow. More often than not that sets my day up right. At the moment, in no particular order: Have a cup of tea, do a few exercises, take a shower, go for a walk round the block. Getting dressed shouldn't be forgotten.
Eliot Sykes
Missed Connections
http://www.missedconnections.com
@eliotsykes
77. Give Thanks!
I have started my day the same for decades. I get up and make coffee. While my wife and I sit on our veranda and watch the sun come up, we give thanks for what God has given us and what He will bless us with in the future. We read short motivational passages and/or a short biography of an artist or designer since art and design is our business. We finish our morning start up by discussing our plans for the day and any ideas we might have had over night. I then get to work on my art and my wife on promoting my art. This routine has worked well for us as we are very successful and I am known around the world for my drawings and sculptures of dancers. No matter where we go, we get up early and watch the sun rise---city, beach, mountains, etc.---and give thanks and share ideas.
I cannot say if the secret is just getting up early and getting to work or if God blesses those who show thanks?
pablo solomon
Artist & Designer
musee-solomon
http://www.pablosolomon.com / http://www.beverlysolomon.com
78. Gratitude and Attitude
I start my morning ritual with gratitude. I think about all things for which I am grateful (not the least of which is waking up). I give thanks for the night's sleep, the comfy surroundings, the safe home, the air conditioner that keeps me cool, the opportunity to serve another day, things like that.
Then I set intention. Intention is a potent force that acts on your behalf to help you create the day you want. You can intend to "be" a certain way or to "do" certain things. You might say "Today I intend to be kind and say something nice to everyone I meet." You can jot it down on an index card and carry it with you if you wish, you can say it out loud in the mirror, give yourself a wink and start your day. It's up to you. It's a simple way to give your day direction and purpose.
JoAnna Brandi
JoAnna Brandi & Company
JoAnna is a happiness coach helping businesses create happy customers and happy employees.
www.ReturnOnHappiness.com
79. Get a Good Sleep
The best way to start your work day is start the night before. If you get a good amount of sleep during the night then your day will be more rested, and able, to tackle the day ahead.
Gary Mullen
HandcraftedUK
www.handcrafteduk.com
@Handcrafteduk
Proprietor of the ethnic gift store, HandcraftedUK
80. Emails, No - Breakfast, Yes
1. Don't get involved in emails too early. When starting off, I would spend the first hour or two checking through emails and responding to them, not very productive! Now I only reply to urgent emails before 10.30. If its a real problem for you, you may want to cut down on newsletters, or have them sent to a separate account.
2. Always have breakfast. Its a well known fact now that breakfast aids concentration, and will make the morning much more bearable.
3. Start on time, no matter how tired you are. Trust me on this one, start the day late, and your whole day will follow suit.
Jonathan Padhiar
Digital Arts
http://www.digitalartsuk.com
@graphic_designe
81. Don't Let Circumstances Dictate
Do yourself a favor: DON'T start your day by opening the mail or looking at your emails, or the circumstances will dictate your life and will turn you into a pinball pushed around by external demands, which is the exact opposite of leadership. Instead, start your day with your A1 priority, and get something significant done before you do anything else. Once you have accomplished a key result or milestone along your top priority, you can spend the rest of the day dealing with lower-level priorities. And it will give you this great feeling that comes from achieving something that matters to you.
Dr. Thomas D. Zweifel, CEO
Swiss Consulting Group
www.swissconsultinggroup.com / www.thomaszweifel.com
@tdz2
82. Create a Roadmap
I'm a big believer in a roadmap (otherwise how else would you know where you are going?) The same holds true for work. When I take the time to set or review my goals for the day, at the beginning of my day, I find that it starts me off on the right foot. I know where I'm going, and what I plan to accomplish that day, which feels good. When I skip this step, I often look back at my day, which got sucked into email, the internet, and God knows what else, and find I really didn't accomplish much of value. So my breakfast of champions is a quick list of the top 3 things I want to accomplish that day, and then getting right to it!
Mary-Claire
Mary-Claire Burick
MC Strategy, Inc.
Media. Communication. Strategy.
83. Breathe and Stretch
Each morning, I stretch before I get out of bed, fingers, toes, legs, arms, body, every muscle. A martial arts instructor taught me this many years ago to prevent injury and keep me physically centered and balanced. Then I breathe, yoga-type deep breathing to get the oxygen flowing. As I breathe in I celebrate my greatness by breathing into my heart a personal quality that recognizes and acknowledges my greatness, on the exhale, I breathe that same quality into the the world. Qualities like: creativity, enthusiasm, grace under fire, generosity, being loving and caring, etc. I learned this breathing tehnique from Howard Glasser's new book, You Are Oprah, Igniting the Fires of Greatness. I smile, and then I get out of bed, do a salute the sun yoga posture to get the blood into my brain and get moving. As I get ready for the day, I drink a cup of green tea and review what I will accomplish this day. Before I leave for the day, I kiss my husband and make sure he knows he is loved.
Susan Bender Phelps
Speaker, Trainer, Consultant
Odyssey Mentoring
@OdysseyMentor
84. A Simple, Repeatable Routine
Two important factors in everyday life are routines and preparation. These used together are powerful habit busters. Your job is to replace an unproductive routine with a productive routine. Everyone should have a morning and evening routine. Why? The morning and evening routines will help you get yourself and your children out the door on time.
Your morning routine should be as simple as possible. Most people are not with it first thing in the morning. Recognize this and work with it not against it. Start with getting up 15 minutes earlier than you do right now. Get into the habit of doing the tasks you need to get ready in the same order every day. After a whileyou will not even have to think about what you are doing, you will just do it. Ahh, save that brain power for something important.
Cynthia Marsh-Croll
Turning Business Piles Into Productivity & Profits!
Croll Organizing, LLC
www.crollorganizing.com
85. Music to Get Moving
How I start my day off right: I start my day off with music each morning. There’s something about a great soundtrack from the shower to shaving to the car and to the appointments that keeps the flow of the day on fire and my energy level through the roof. Without my music, I’d probably only get half of the day’s work done.
Jay Rodriguez
JayRodChicago
www.JayRodChicago.com
@JayRodChicago
86. Skim for Important Emails
To start your day off right, do a quick check of your email, scanning subjects for things you must read BECAUSE they affect projects on your To Do List (which you prepared the night before) or new emergencies. If you are a “morning person”, start working on your hardest or most important project. Skip the rest of your email until you have “downtime”. If you are an “afternoon person”, do routine things or “C” priorities until you are more “awake” and then tackle more difficult items and process your email. Save top priorities for the afternoon. Working on top priorities or responding to emails when you’re not at your best wastes your time.
Eileen Roth
Everything in its Place® www.everythinginitsplace.net
@EileenRoth
As a national speaker and the author of Organizing For Dummies®, Eileen Roth helps adults and students be more productive and save time.
87. Quality Coffee
I worked as a computer game programmer for years and I remember coming into the office every morning but rarely being in the mood to get right to work. Instead, I'd answer emails and surf the Internet. Quite often the coffee pot would be empty, old, or brewed with something that shouldn't be called coffee.
Now I'm a Kona coffee farmer. On my website, I keep a blog about life on the farm. Knowing how hard it is to get to work in the mornings, I try to keep my blog interesting so people have some interesting reading material while ordering a refill of delicious, fresh 100% Kona coffee direct from the farm.
As a computer game programmer, if I was in the office by 9am I'd be the first one there. As a Kona coffee farmer my work day begins a little earlier but I still like to start it with a good cup of coffee and a few minutes on the Internet. Of course now I have all the coffee I can drink.
Gary Strawn
Kona Earth
www.KonaEarth.com/Life/
88. A Natural Energy Brew
I drink a natural energy brew containing ginseng and decaf green tea. Just one hot cup gives me plenty of great pep to launch into my work. There's no caffeine to give me jitters or cause the type of crash that hits when a morning coffee-and-sugar rush wears off.
Elayne Angel
Author of The Piercing Bible--The Definitive Guide to Safe Piercing; I live in the Yucatan of Mexico with my husband, seven dogs, a cat, and two pygmy owls.
http://piercingbible.com/
@elayneangel
89. Tasks and Times
I find that it is not enough to have a task list. I get more accomplished if I pick just 6 tasks and put them on a list by start and end time. This keeps be on track even if something comes up. I just look at my list, look at the clock, and start working on the task that I am supposed to be doing. It is also important to build in some free time into any task list for the unforeseen things that come up.
Bradford Shimp
All Biz Answers
www.allbizanswers.com
@bradfordshimp
Offering smart business advice to small business owners.
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Compiled by Bradford Shimp
