Good day, Purposeful Hearts! For our time together today, I’ve decided we should have a habit check-in. How much do you pay attention to the influence that your personal habits have over your schedule, your health, your mental well-being and focus, and your relationships? If that question caught you off guard, perhaps it’s time to investigate the fact that little daily habits compounded over time equal a very powerful force.
Have you read Atomic Habits by James Clear? Amazing book. I highly recommend that you run out and fetch a copy (after you’re done reading today’s blog post, of course). You won’t regret it!
Because I’m a natural habit tracker (sometimes too much – 142-week Peloton streak, anyone?), Clear’s book was more like a personal affirmation than a kick of motivation. You know I love a moment of reflection, and I think it’s wise to keep our lifestyles in check to make sure they’re serving us well. Today, I’d like to share one of my personal systems that keeps my habits on track. I call it my “Non-Negotiable Morning.”
It's non-negotiable because I hate excuses, and I fully understand that if I give myself an “out” from something I should be doing, I’m likely to take it. Human nature, right? Well, I decided I don’t have time for all of the wasted thinking that happens around contemplating an “out” every day. By making the habits non-negotiable, I get right into the action without questioning it. Otherwise, I might find myself spending 15 minutes trying to justify why I just can’t get to my workout, when I could have been halfway through it already! “Non-negotiable” pierces through the noise.
And why the morning? Well, that’s when I’m personally at my best. And getting things done right away in the day prevents another type of habit-breaking excuse, like “this day just got too busy” or “I’ve spent all my energy for today” or “it’s too late for today; I’ll just do it tomorrow.” Do any of those rationalizations sound familiar to you? The other reason the morning works well for me is that it’s an instant checkmark on my to-do list. That checkmark makes me feel empowered, productive, and energized.
So, what’s included in my Non-Negotiable Morning? Before I step out of bed, I read my morning devotion and Bible reading to get my heart and attitude in the right spot for the day. I also do a quick check of my email and calendar items for the day. Basic hygiene, a cup of coffee, and another devotion with my family all happen before anyone leaves the house. Then I attack my workout for the day to “earn” my shower and know that I’m doing what I can to stay healthy for myself and my family. Must-do logistical items happen next, which might be my least-favorite part – but it gets done! And I feel lighter and freer for having done it, and I’m ready to face whatever comes after that!
What about you? Do you have your own version of the Non-Negotiable Morning? If so, I’d love to hear about it! Let’s help each other embrace the power and potential of habits in our lives!
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