Good Morning

The alarm signals the beginning of a day-long scramble. Rushing to get out of bed, to get into my clothes, to get to class, to get things done, to get to the next class, until I tumble into bed at the end of the day (or the middle of the night, circumstances depending). If only there were more hours in a day. This kind of constant rush is not going to cut it for me. There’s got to be a solution.

I am not a morning person, so when someone suggests getting up earlier, I try to find alternate solutions until I am convinced this is something I should try. After a day or two, though, I am persuaded that establishing a morning routine is of more benefit than cost. Setting my alarm a mere half an hour earlier provides me with time to relax a little before approaching a busy day.

1. Make the bed. Smooth out the wrinkles. Arrange the pillows.
2. Put on the coffee.
3. Prepare to face the world. Get dressed. Brush teeth.
4. Quiet time. Journal. Read. Reflect.
5. Consult the planner. Assess the coming day. Write down tasks.
6. Pack the bag. Put whatever materials needed for the day in the backpack.

I quickly find that these simple elements combine to make me feel more prepared for the day to begin.

I may not be able to add hours to the day, but I can substitute a few minutes of sleep with a routine that allows me to breathe a little before I am swamped with the day’s to-dos. Whether a morning person or not, everyone could benefit from a few quiet moments before the chaos of a day.