🎨 Morning Routine: How to Set Your Day for Success (even in Consulting)

At a Glance:

• My morning routine, step by step.
• How to build your most powerful morning routine
• PRO TIP to ‘find’ time in the morning!

Have you ever wondered how some people seem to have boundless energy, even without coffee, energy drinks, or naps? That’s me, and I promise you—it’s not magic. It’s the power of a well-designed morning routine.

Why Morning Routines Matter for (Ex)Consultants

If you’re working in a high-pressure corporate role, mornings might feel like the only time you truly own. A strong routine can:

• Boost your focus: Start the day clear-headed and intentional.
• Increase resilience: Prepare your mind and body to tackle challenges.
• Set boundaries: Establish a sense of control in an unpredictable work environment.

Years ago, while working in consulting, I often had a lot of energy, even when working long hours on tough projects.

Why? Key for me was the morning exercise routine! COnsulting has taught me to set my day up for success with morning training (because morning was the most controllable part of my day and I wanted to exercise regularly).

When I transitioned to a new role outside of consulting, I realized I want to build an even more powerful morning routine, so I did!

Here’s exactly how I do it—and how you can too.

My Morning Routine:

#1 Get up when the alarm rings (NO snooze button!)

No snoozing. My alarm is across the room, so I HAVE to get out of bed. This small act sets the tone for decisive action throughout the day.

#2 Visualize or meditate for 10 minutes

Before the noise of the day begins, I spend a few moments visualizing my goals or practicing mindfulness. It keeps me grounded and focused.

#3 Sunlight before screenlight

I step outside (or onto my balcony) for at least 5 minutes to soak in natural daylight. This simple habit regulates my circadian rhythm and boosts my mood.

(not so easy in winter, when sun is hiding, but I aim to maximise this habit whenever possible)

#4 Morning exercise is non-negotiable

Whether it’s cardio, interval training, weight lifting or tennis class, I get my body moving. For me, mornings are the only time I can guarantee a workout (this is my great consulting achievement - do my workout in the most controllable part of the day).

#5 Warm water with lemon is my go-to drink

While others reach for coffee, I hydrate with this simple, energizing drink. It wakes up my body naturally and supports digestion.

Some tips on how to build your most powerful morning routine:

Morning Routine as Emotional Armour

Your morning routine can be more than a set of tasks—it can become your emotional armour, preparing you for whatever the day brings. Here’s how:

• Location has energy: Doing the same activities in the same place every day imbues that space with purpose and energy. Over time, the place will feel like a sanctuary for productivity and calm.
• Time has memory: Sticking to a consistent schedule helps build a rhythm. Just as your body remembers when it’s time to eat, it will also remember when it’s time to focus, reflect, or move.

Making TIME in the Day (by Jay Shetty)

To build an effective morning routine, focus on these four pillars:

• Thankfulness: Spend 5 minutes each morning practicing gratitude. Be specific—what are you thankful for today? This cultivates a positive mindset.
• Insight: Feed your mind with a nugget of wisdom or learning. Read a book, listen to a podcast, or reflect on a quote.
• Meditation: Even a few minutes of stillness can help you find clarity and reduce stress.
• Exercise: Everyone can find 5-15 minutes for movement. A little activity goes a long way in setting the tone for an energized day.

I hear this often. But let’s break it down:

• Getting up without snooze: 0 minutes
• Meditation or visualization: 10 minutes
• Sunlight exposure: Combine with #2, no added time
• Exercise: Even 5 minutes of stretching counts
• Hydrating: Swap your usual morning drink—0 minutes

With as little as 15-20 minutes, you can create a routine that transforms your day.

And if you still think you don’t have time for this, then just wake up 15 mins earlier!!!!

Your Turn: Build Your Energy-Boosting Routine

Build you morning routine, and keep in mind few pillars that are key:

1. Regular wake up times
2. Movement (any form of exercising, even a walk is good).
3. Sunlight before screenlight (yes, laptop and mobile are both screenlights :) )
4. Time for yourself to ‘think’.
5. Delay your coffee to 60’90 minutes after waking up.

But do it smart, and step by step:

1. Identify one small habit to incorporate tomorrow morning.
2. Stick with it for a week before adding another.
3. Track how it impacts your energy and focus throughout the day.

Remember, this isn’t about perfection. It’s about creating a system that works for YOU.

"There’s no such thing as a loser who wakes up at 5 a.m."— Sahil Bloom

Whether it’s 5 a.m. or 7 a.m., starting smart gives you the edge.

Fingers crossed for you!!!