Our days frequently seem to just happen to us. We tumble out of bed, quickly hit the ground running, and collapse into the evening feeling spent, not pleased. But what if that script were reversed? What if deliberately creating our existing hours of the day was the key to a more contented, productive, and truly joyful existence rather than extending them? Creating a plan for your ideal day begins at both ends, with a nightly routine that genuinely enables you to rest and a morning routine that positions you for success. It’s not only about speed; it’s also about developing momentum.
We often feel as though our days simply happen to us. We jump out of bed, run to our feet, and fall into the evening exhausted and dissatisfied. What if, however, that script were inverted? What if the secret to a happier, more productive, and really enjoyable life was not to prolong our current hours of the day, but to intentionally create them? Making a plan for your perfect day starts at both ends, with a morning routine that sets you up for success and a nocturnal routine that really allows you to sleep. It’s important to build momentum in addition to speed.
Managing your energy throughout the day, not just during the morning, is crucial once it’s established. We’ve all experienced the 3 p.m. slump, when we lose concentration and feel a strong temptation to put things off. The most productive days are those in which we devote our whole attention to our most critical activities (commonly referred to as “MITs”) during the natural peak of our energy, which is typically the first few hours following our morning routine. Instead of using caffeine to get through the slump, try doing a quick “reset.” This may be a healthy food, a ten-minute walk, or a sincere break from the screen. These little rests are deliberate recharging sessions that help you avoid burnout and end the afternoon on a high note. They are not interruptions.
Despite being just as important as the morning routine, the evening one is frequently disregarded. Not only is it important to wind down, but it’s also important to create a calm and seamless transition from the stress of the day to real rest. Avoiding the usual mistake of “doomscrolling” right before bed is necessary to do this. Create an Evening Close instead, which tells your body that the workday is officially finished. An hour before bed, put screens away for a digital sunset. Spend that time reading a physical book, preparing your outfit for the next day, or doing a calming activity like gentle stretching. By creating a relaxing end to your day, you ensure your sleep is restorative, not anxious. When you wake up feeling truly rested, your morning anchor becomes easier, creating a beautiful, self-reinforcing cycle for a better, more fulfilling life.