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I wake up at 4:00 am, sometimes 3:00. It all depends on the outcome of the previous day. A little groggy, hitting the snooze button is tempting but it’s time to get after it.
Flipping on the news is a source of habit for most of America before they hit the ground running. The sports, weather, politics, and crime are engrained in our psyche to believe consuming this information will get us ready for the day. I beg to differ.
My source of information (inspiration and motivation) is YouTube. Throughout the day I log in for a few minutes at a time and scan new uploads from my subscribed pages. The next morning I bring these videos to life, taking at least 15 minutes out of my schedule to sit down, uninterrupted and take in the power sessions.
Fifteen minutes is all I need.
In the fifteen minutes passed, and supported by popular research, my emotional and mental capacity are at a new high bringing everything into a state of flow. This allows me to redirect my attention to kickboxing to release any pent up energy, followed by a quick treadmill cardio session to really get the endorphins rolling. I’m in the zone!
My inbox is loaded but there is no sense of urgency so we move on. Instead, my mind scans through the list of goals that are attainable in the busiest of days. Personally, stretching myself is important, but eating the frog sets the standard.
Started off with the most challenging task first is gratifying and makes the remaining tasks more manageable.
A sweaty mess, I never deviate from the importance of a good long shower. Fragrant bath soaps, and top-notch shaving supplies are worth the investment in yourself and health. After spending a moment’s time getting cleaned and listening to music for a moment of mindfulness, on comes the wardrobe to die for.
I get a kick at people who resemble a high school student rolling out of bed and throwing on the first pair of clothes within arm’s reach. Whether I’m going the library, work, or meeting with clients, dressing in well fitted and pressed clothes topped off with a refreshing sent the day takes on a whole different approach and grants you a world of respect.
Breakfast is delicious because I’m in no rush. Deciding to wake up early has given me ample time to cook and eat slowly, enjoying the time and effort taken to prepare a balanced meal.
By now it’s time to hit the metro and make my way into the city. Music is life for me and coupled with a good book, you can easily tune out the miserable conversation and faces on the way to your destination. Then I reach my destination where the rubber meets the road.
The eight hours spent working, studying, or job searching can go many ways. What’s important is your ability to adjust to the challenges. Never plan for everything to go your way. It’s a recipe for disaster.
Lunch is a funny place to be as you’re faced with meetings (not your fault), eating (good choice), or gossiping with your colleagues (terrible idea). When used properly, if an option appears, the rest of your day is a cakewalk.
To my surprise, I still have not tuned in to any news other than the stock market, weather and anything relevant to my industry. It keeps a healthy perspective and clear head away from the circus that exists through many mediums.
No day is perfect so when it’s time to bid adieu to the office, what’s done is done. Yes, some nights will require burning the midnight oil and others will leave you twiddling your figures trying to find something to do. Just relax.
Catching up with friends, family or anyone with a real-world perspective who understands you can provide the perfect distraction you need as a reminder that life exists outside of work. What’s more, receiving sharp contrast of what you believe is humbling and needed as a boost for an unfulfilled life that often looms over us.
It’s getting late now so while dinner is preparing, so are your thoughts for the next day. Repeating the pattern you have used most of your life and jotting down what’s needed you can assure another day met with productive, rather then email responses in near view.
At day’s end, we digest, spend quality time with the spouse and prepare for the day ahead of us. Twenty four hours is all we have—better choose it wisely. Sleep well.
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Photo: Getty Images