The Morning Myth: Do Routines Really Hold the Key to Success?
Are morning routines the key to success, or just a trend? Let’s explore the science behind their benefits and potential drawbacks.
In our achievement-driven society, it’s no surprise that many of us are searching for ways to optimise our daily lives. One trend that has surged in popularity in recent years is the establishment of a so-called morning routine. But is there really substance behind the hype of yoga before breakfast or journaling before your first coffee? This article will delve into the phenomenon of morning routines and explore what science says about their potential benefits — without ignoring the downsides.
What Are Morning Routines?
A morning routine consists of a series of actions that you perform every morning, regularly and in the same order. The goal is to start your day with structure, laying the groundwork for productivity and well-being. Whether it’s meditation, exercise, or creative writing, your routine should cater to your personal needs.
According to psychological research, morning routines offer several potential benefits. They provide a sense of control over the day, which can boost self-efficacy and overall satisfaction.¹ Additionally, they reduce the number of decisions you have to make throughout the day. By limiting decision-making early on, you conserve mental energy for more complex tasks.² Furthermore, studies suggest that certain morning activities, such as physical exercise or meditation, can improve your mood and increase resilience to stress.³⁴ A consistent morning routine can also stabilise your sleep cycle, leading to better sleep quality, which in turn contributes to a more restful start to the day.⁵
With this foundation laid, it’s time to examine the potential drawbacks of morning routines.
Criticisms of Morning Routines
While morning routines may offer many advantages, there are critical voices warning of their potential downsides. One central criticism is the stress that an overly rigid routine can cause. Focusing too much on achieving the “perfect” sequence of activities can quickly become another stressor in an already hectic day. Instead of starting the day relaxed, the pressure to “complete” a lengthy routine can make mornings feel stressful.
Another often overlooked aspect is the societal pressure created by the hype around morning routines. On social media, these rituals are frequently idealised, causing many people to feel they too need an elaborate routine to be successful. This comparison with supposedly perfect routines can lead to frustration and a sense of failure if one’s own routine doesn’t measure up.
A less common but still relevant criticism is the potential restriction of creativity. Some experts argue that rigid morning routines may hinder creative processes. The grogginess we typically view as an obstacle might actually be a valuable moment for creative thoughts. Research indicates⁶ that our brains are more likely to make unconventional connections when we are in a state of drowsiness, fostering creative solutions to problems.
Tips for a Successful Morning Routine
If you decide to integrate a morning routine into your daily life, it’s crucial to ensure that it truly supports you rather than becoming an additional burden. Here are some general tips to help you develop a meaningful morning routine:
- Start small: Instead of radically changing your entire morning, make small adjustments. New habits take time to form. Start with something simple, like a short meditation or a walk, and gradually build on your routine.
- Listen to your body: Not everyone is equally productive in the morning. It’s essential to adapt your routine to your individual chronotype. If you’re more of a night owl, it might make sense to include quieter activities in the morning and save creative or intense tasks for later in the day.
- Stay flexible: A morning routine should support you, not confine you. If a particular activity doesn’t feel right on a certain day, give yourself permission to make adjustments. The goal is to create a routine that strengthens you rather than weighs you down.
- Set realistic goals: Overly ambitious routines are hard to maintain and can quickly lead to frustration. Set realistic goals that you can stick to long-term. A simple, consistent routine is often more effective than an overloaded one.
- Start offline: In today’s digital world, it’s tempting to start the day by checking messages or social media. However, this can quickly lead to stress and distraction. Try starting your day without digital devices to create a calmer and more focused morning atmosphere.
By following these tips, you can develop a morning routine that truly benefits you and prepares you for the day ahead. Remember, there is no such thing as a “perfect” routine — it’s all about finding what works for you and supports your daily life.
Conclusion
Whether a morning routine is worth it or not is something you’ll have to decide for yourself. The key is to choose a routine that fits your needs and helps you start your day with energy and clarity. Rather than rigidly adhering to an ideal, listen to your body and design a routine that works for you and makes your mornings easier.
This is an English translation of a blog post that was originally published in the author’s blog in German.
