Chapter 1: The Search for a Morning Routine

After years of experimenting, I’ve finally settled on a morning routine that truly resonates with me. It begins with lighting a candle on my desk and boiling a kettle. While the kettle heats up, I prepare my oil burner by filling it with hot water and adding four drops of essential oil. Simultaneously, I fill my water carafe with a fruit tea bag, which adds a touch of beauty. After enjoying my first cup of coffee, I take a moment for meditation lasting about ten minutes. Then, I dedicate 15 to 20 minutes to writing my morning words, followed by crafting a piece for Medium.

This entire morning ritual typically requires one to two hours of tranquil personal time. I've attempted to wake up earlier but have realized that my body prefers a later start, usually between 6:30 and 7:30 a.m. This gives me a peaceful hour or so before my workday begins around 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. As a business owner, I have the flexibility to shape my mornings according to my needs.

However, any disruption to my routine can lead to a surge of crankiness, as I fiercely guard this precious "me-time." Whether it's a sick child at home, a public holiday, or my husband’s sudden cleaning spree on weekends, interruptions can be plentiful. Pain, exhaustion, or early work calls also add to the unpredictability.

Why Your Morning Routine Isn't Working

This video dives into common pitfalls of morning routines and how to overcome them.

Chapter 2: Embracing Life's Interruptions

Routines, regardless of their nature, serve as frameworks around which we build our lives. Yet, life often intervenes in unexpected ways, disrupting our plans—sometimes at the most inconvenient moments. Muhammad Ali famously stated, "Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face," and this sentiment rings true when interruptions arise.

When faced with an unexpected disruption, you have two choices: allow frustration to derail your day or embrace the interruption.

This morning, during my meditation, my adorable white puppy approached me, eager to go outside. In the past, I might have reacted with irritation, spiraling into negative thoughts about being responsible for him. However, today, I chose to embrace the moment. I greeted him warmly, feeling the connection between us.

Researchers have shown that dogs genuinely love their humans more than food, which only added to the experience. While petting him, I continued my meditation, shifting my focus to the sensation of his soft fur. Once my meditation ended, I let him out and returned to writing, feeling surprisingly peaceful.

Had I reacted negatively, it would have affected my mood and creativity for the day. Instead, I welcomed the interruption, and now my puppy sits contentedly under my desk, providing companionship and support.

Consider this: what if you viewed interruptions differently? Daily life is filled with minor disruptions that can easily throw us off course. Instead of viewing them as nuisances, we can learn to integrate them into our routines.

38 Truths About Successful Morning Routines

This video explores key insights for creating effective morning routines that adapt to life's unpredictabilities.

Conclusion: A New Perspective

Embrace interruptions as part of your daily routine. Rather than viewing them as setbacks, see them as opportunities to pause, breathe, and recalibrate. Accepting these moments can enhance your day rather than derail it.

Thank you for taking the time to read my reflections. If you found this helpful, please share it with others who may benefit.

Kristin Austin — Writer and lifelong learner, navigating life with love for food, friends, and family.