Bangin over breakfast

Everyone is pretty much into some sort of morning routine as it pertains to starting their day.  Your routine is based on your way of life, certain circumstances, the type of job you may have- you get the idea.  Well, I’m trying to make some changes in my morning routine since my circumstances have changed as it relates to my new job.  Let me first say, I am NOT a morning person.  It takes me a long time to get into my morning.  So adjusting to a new routine has been a real struggle. 

Let’s rewind for a moment and allow me to give you a little background so you can understand how deep this transition really is. In my previous position, I worked as an administrator in alternative education and I had certain privileges in my position. Our learning centers started promptly at 7:00 or 7:30 in the morning.  Kareem was leaving for work, so the house was nice and quiet. I probably did my last turnover in the bed at that time. Of course, my phone was turned on, but I didn’t officially open my eyes until maybe 8:00 am and I was still in the bed at the time.  My cell phone sat on the nightstand next to my bed and I would simply pick it up and catch up on what I may have missed on social media.  I sat on my phone for maybe 30 minutes before I physically got out of the bed.  Then I made my coffee at about 8:45 am, and once I was settled in my quiet space, I began studying my word and had some prayer time.  After all that, I went to the gym.  So, after mindlessly scrolling through my phone, having coffee, studying and working out, I was ready to start at 11:00am.  Dang I had it good! I know ya’ll are like, “say what now?!” LOL… But let me say, work never stopped for me so, when you think about it, it really balanced out.  

Those luxuries have since changed and what an adjustment it has been. I now have to report to work at about 8:00 am.  That means Kareem and I are getting ready at the same time. Did I mention I was NOT a morning person?  Kareem, on the other hand, likes to smile and chit chat.  Bruhhhh!!!! He comes in saying “good morning” all loud and me not wanting to open my mouth, I barely squeeze the phrase through my teeth.  Don’t judge me. He accepts me. With our schedule, I now only get about 15 minutes to myself alone in the house before I have to go be superwoman at school.  That just wasn’t enough time and the drive to work is only 15 minutes.  Lord, I need more time to get my mind right! Got to school, I immediately closed my office door to get quiet time and eat my breakfast. Someone must’ve seen me walk in because here they are knocking on my door.  Hello…the door is closed! UGH! 

Something had to give.  Habits needed to change.  My mornings were feeling messy and I found it took me way longer to get in rhythm. In order for my day to start more productively and peacefully, I had to adjust my morning routine to try and figure out what works best for me.  Now, what I do, may not work for you and that’s fine. But let me be the first to say, find a routine that works. You will thank me later.  It’s nothing like being in control at the start of your day.  It sets the tone for the entire day!  Just choose a couple of things to start with and be consistent.  

Here are a few things I have changed and now incorporate in my routine.  I wake up at 5:15 am: 

1. Set one alarm. I have done the snooze thing and that doesn’t work for me.  It gives me an excuse to stay in the bed but if I set the alarm just once, I am forced to get up because I don’t want to oversleep.  Trust, I have overslept before and talk about an off day. If it’s been a long night of working though, I will set a backup time for emergency situations.  
2. If you’re a coffee drinker like me, prepare your coffee the night before and set the auto start timer for the next morning.  The smell of fresh coffee brewing in the morning is another great alarm clock.  That aroma hits your nose like, “I’m ready for you.” 
3. Go to your quiet space.  Your space could be the living room, closet, guest bedroom, bathroom, etc.  Just find a space fit just for you.  I personally spend time in either the guest bedroom or living room.  I drink coffee and began journaling and reading my bible.  I spend anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour of quiet time.  I select a quote or scripture for the day and just meditate on it.  
4. Workout. Now, I am still trying to get this one together, but I have every intention on being consistent.  I think I am just going to get dressed before I enter my quiet space. That way I am ready and prepared for the gym afterward.  I’ll spend 30-45 minutes in the gym.  
5. Prepare breakfast and pack lunch. This really is an important meal, especially if you worked out in the morning.  My go-to is oatmeal, egg muffins, banana, or a smoothie.  Simple enough to pop in the microwave or blend quickly.  I can’t function unless I have breakfast.  If this isn’t your usual, give it a try and see if you have a little bit more energy.  

All in all, find what works for you but make sure you are your best self when you create your personalized routine.  It’s okay if you don’t stick to it every single day.  Give yourself grace and start over the next day.  If you have any more suggestions for your girl, send them my way.  I am always looking for ways to improve my routine because when I tell you I’ve been struggling; sis been looking cross-eyed but it’s been getting better. 

Love you to life family!