Our brain is evolving into tasks. Having a daily routine promotes a sense of security, strengthens our focus, gives us a sense of purpose, helps us have a higher level of energy, and gives us the necessary rhythm of advancing in our lives.
If we do not structure our lives in daily activities, things will quickly deteriorate out of control. Each new day means we have to start from the beginning. What do we do first, and what then? Where should we focus our strength? What is the main priority? Where will we go? Why would we choose it over that?
It is easy to see that if we live this way, our brain will be overwhelmed. Too many important questions to ask, too many answers to recognize, too many decisions to make. That is why having a routine helps the brain maneuver in daily activities more easily.
The simpler the routine, the better the chances of doing it, and the more benefits the brain will feel as a result.
Here are three examples of simple morning activities that can benefit our brain.
1. Strengthen focus after waking up to this question:
What is ONE THING I am committed to completing today?
What is the benefit? Focusing on “one thing” keeps things simple, it helps your brain focus better, it makes you prioritize your goals (for work or study), and it speeds up your job so you don’t overdo having too many things in one day.
How do you include it? Write the question on a sheet of paper and hang it on the wall of your bedroom or bathroom. Then, read it aloud as you begin each day (for example, while brushing or dressing), and have an answer in place. Make that answer your top priority for what matters most to you.
2. Prepare a 5 minute breakfast to give you energy and feed your brain.
What is the benefit? Eating breakfast will really help to wake up your whole system. Also, if you choose something healthy and delicious, you are more likely to stick to the habit. Extra points if you are preparing something that also looks good - a habit that is easier to maintain if we give ourselves a sensory boost to make the ritual more pleasant and something to be expected.
What are the easy breakfast options? Some of my breakfast favorites include a bowl of oatmeal with flaxseed and chia seeds, mixed with some peanut butter, or Greek yogurt with granola. Add fresh fruit depending on the season: strawberry, fig, banana, grapefruit, persimmon, apple, apricot, mango, peaches, or papaya. I like to add walnuts and almonds because they are good at eating the brain.
3. Use your morning hours to do deep work.
What is deep work? It is the focused, uninterrupted, analytical thinking that requires you to be in the “flow” so that you can concentrate on what is in front of you and nothing else. It helps if you avoid multitasking and turn off all distractions. Some examples of in-depth work could be reading, writing, condensing complex material into outlines and notes, coding, analysis, critical thinking, and problem solving.
Why is this important? Many scientists say that peak brain function occurs 2-4 hours after we wake up. In other words, when you do deep work early you tune into your body's biological clock, take advantage of your focus to solve complex problems, and think more deeply. Also, once you have mastered the cognitive task management, you will feel better and have time to relax later in the day.
