A Productive Morning Begins the Night Before

Most people associate the outcome of their day with how they face each morning. Although a positive start is important, equally essential is your preparation the evening prior. Small changes at sundown can have a significant impact on a better tomorrow. Refer to the following recommendations to determine what works best for you.

Reset your space. Although it can be tempting to ignore the dishes and wait another day before putting freshly laundered clothes away, there is nothing quite like being greeted by a sparkling kitchen and organized closet upon awakening. In fact, research published by Princeton University Neuroscience Institute confirms that a cluttered environment limits the processing capacity of the mind and restricts how well we are able to focus. Pick up your socks from the floor, organize your stack of magazines by the bed and make your sleep space a sanctuary.

Turn off the screen(s). If you doze off during a Netflix binge and wake up in the middle of the night feeling unsettled, it should come as no surprise. According to the National Sleep Foundation, the brain is heavily influenced by light when it comes to powering down. Ultimately, the brightness of your television and other electronic devices can stimulate the brain to make you stay awake. Catching one more episode of your favorite sitcom may be keeping you from a restful night’s sleep.

Seek out activities that inspire you. Whether it’s reading a great book, taking a quick run or jumping on the coloring book bandwagon, find something that will help you de-stress before bed. Listen to your body to determine what suits you. From meditation to an evening cup of chamomile tea, pay attention to what relaxes you after a busy day.

Have your outfit ready. Your morning routine isn’t generally as simple as jumping into the first thing you grab and walking out the door; there’s a process to your splendor. When you’re in a rush, you set the tone to get frustrated before you lace up your oxford or slip on your business pump. Save yourself the headache by selecting your outfit the night before, complete with shoes and accessories. Before you turn off the light, try it on, examine it for stains and wrinkles and hang it up where you can easily access it. Cold outside? Raining? Check the weather app and have your outerwear gear ready as well.

Make your lunch. It is safe to say, at some point in our lives; we have all hit the snooze button one too many times. In a mad dash to get to work, you decide to eat out on your lunch break even though you planned on staying away from fried foods. Remain on track by prepping your meals each night before clean up. This would be an incentive to use the leftovers you are debating leaving out or putting away.

Write out a checklist. Instead of anxiously awaiting tomorrow, plan ahead by creating a to-do list much like you would when going to the grocery store. Review what you have accomplished and carry over any tasks you weren’t able to finish. Categorize each item based on its priority, so you can hit the ground running once you get into the office.

Invest in good quality bedding. Even if you are able to fall asleep, having a comfortable mattress and cozy pillows is essential to slumber. Be sure to replace these items periodically, according to your level of relaxation and the manufacturer’s suggestions. This includes sheets, blankets and duvet covers. When you love your bed, from the aesthetics to the restful sleep it offers, you are motivated to spend more time under the covers.

You may also find Diane’s Five Ways to Start Your Day Off Right helpful. Like Diane’s Facebook page, follow her on Pinterest and Instagram, and  visit her Huffington Post blog.