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It is a dreaded scenario. The alarm clock goes off and you start stirring, your brain clicks into place and starts running through the list of jobs you need to get done at home and at work that day. Pay that electricity bill, pick up dry cleaning, complete those budget forecasts for your boss. That is just the tip of the iceberg. Right then all you want to do is curl into the foetal position, put the duvet over your head and avoid the outside world till at least lunchtime.
Including some time saving hacks in you morning routine can help to free up some valuable time. Starting the day with a good breakfast and some exercise for example will make a massive difference to both your mood and stamina.
Preset your phone or alarm clock to a song that really gets you pumped. Maybe it is a cheesy 80's classic that you can't help but singalong to, or a hip-hop favourite that gets you on your game. Either way, adding music to the daily routine is a sure-fire way to get you up and out of bed. Thus meaning no wasted time hitting snooze every ten minutes until you have eaten into all your shower time and run the risk of getting to work half dressed.
This might seem weird, but having to get out of your bed to turn your alarm off, will mean men are less likely to get back under the sheets. Just remember that if you have a tendency to deep sleep and have missed the alarm, then you could get the neighbours banging on the wall.
Still staring at the kettle bleary eyed waiting for it to boil? You are basically one step more evolved then a caveman. Take the opportunity to upgrade to a coffee machine like a Nespresso or a Tassimo. A simple coffee pod will give you a barista style latte, espresso or macchiato in no time whatsoever. It not only leaves your hands free to make breakfast but will also give you a better tasting brew.
As a style conscious man I would highly recommend this. There is nothing worse than getting an outfit together in the morning only to find your shirt isn't pressed or your trousers are in the wash. Laying your clothes out, or even grouping together in your wardrobe the evening before will remove the time spent trying to piece together an outfit.
Much like planning your outfits, getting everything you typically take with you to work or college in one place will be a lifesaver. Next to the front door, put your keys, wallet and bag. In your wallet is your bank card, travel card and work ID if required. This will mean no frantically searching for your bank card in the morning. Gladly removing any panic that you only might have enough cash to eat an outdated roll from the canteen.
Although I would always suggest sitting down to eat in the mornings. Some men might prefer eating on the run or at their desk later to save time. In this case make sure your cupboards and fridge are well-stocked with slow energy releasing foods like homemade granola, banana bread or healthy muffins. Time spent on a lazy Sunday baking these breakfasts in advance will mean knowing exactly what you are putting in your body, and ensuring you are kept fuller for longer in the mornings.
We live in a digital age where we are constantly connected 24 hours a day. It is often a good idea to take the evenings and mornings to switch off from distractions. If you have an alarm clock then put your phone on charge in another room. When you wake in the morning, don't immediately rush to check your feed or see how many likes your last photo got. Before you know it, you will have wasted precious time getting distracted. Your journey to work or college will give you plenty of time to go through your social updates so use that pre-commute morning time more wisely.
If you live with a partner or in an abode with a number of residents then, inevitably there is a crossover in peoples lives and routines. This could lead to the dreaded bathroom queue. Work out a routine with those that you live with so you can be more productive. If you have agreed to not be the first in the shower, that doesn't mean more sleep. It means you crack on with your morning coffee, iron your shirt or prepare breakfast for the both of you. Not only will you get more done but if she comes out of the shower to coffee and breakfast, you will definitely score some brownie points.
Inevitably when getting the kids ready in the morning or juggling life living with a partner or friends, there are going to be times of tension. Dirty cutlery left in the sink or a toddler refusing to get dressed. Throwing fuel on the fire by getting annoyed or stressed is not going to help and will only lead to delays. Take a deep breath, keep your cool and stay focused with your morning routine. Take the opportunity to speak to people about their actions at a more convenient time, say in the evening. You will have calmed down by then and be able to approach the situation objectively.
Altering both small and large elements of your daily routine will give men more time to focus on other pursuits. This is key to having a healthy and happily balanced life. Being fully awake and ready to attack the day will lead to a more productive outlook in both your professional and personal life. Which will be a benefit not only to you but those you share your life with.
