Building a Morning Routine for Productivity in Your Home Business

Good morning fellow entrepreneurs and small business owners! 🌟 Ashley here, and today we're diving into one of my favorite topics: building a morning routine that sets you up for productivity in your home business. We all know that running a business from home comes with its unique set of challenges, but with the right morning routine, you can tackle your day like the boss you are. Let’s get into it!

1. Rise and Shine, Boss Lady!

First things first, let’s talk wake-up time. Now, I’m not saying you have to get up at the crack of dawn (unless that’s your jam), but consistency is key. Find a wake-up time that works for you and stick to it. For me, it’s 6:30 AM. It gives me just enough time to get things moving before my little one is up and ready for her day.

2. Hydrate and Energize

Before you dive into that glorious cup of coffee (or tea, in my case), start with a glass of water. Hydration is your best friend. Then, enjoy your coffee or tea or Alani or Red Bull while you take a few moments to center yourself. Whether it’s through reading, journaling, or simply enjoying the quiet, this is your time to mentally prepare for the day ahead.

3. Move That Body

Exercise might not be everyone’s favorite word, but trust me, it makes a world of difference. Whether it’s a quick yoga session, a walk around the block, or a dance party in your living room (my personal favorite, especially with a busy toddler), getting your blood pumping in the morning can boost your energy and mood for the rest of the day. I’m not saying you need a full workout, I get all my lifting in after the work day. Just get a little movement in! My current favorite during the summer heat is some stretching in the AC. You will not catch me walking in this weather!

4. Plan Your Attack

Now that you’re awake, hydrated, and energized, it’s time to get down to business. Spend a few minutes planning your day. I love using a planner or digital calendar to map out my tasks. Prioritize what needs to be done and set realistic goals. This helps keep you focused and on track. And of course, I can’t forget to call out Goodnotes for my note-taking and to-do lists!

5. Fuel Up with a Healthy Breakfast

Don’t skip breakfast, friends! A healthy meal in the morning fuels your body and brain. Go for something that’s going to keep you satisfied and energized. My go-to is scrambled eggs with broccoli and feta (don’t knock it til you try it) – simple, delicious, and packed with nutrients. And, believe it or not, my daughter LOVES this too! So it is a win-win that I make enough for both of us to share instead of needing to make 2 different breakfasts.

6. Dress for Success

Even if you’re working from home, dressing the part can do wonders for your productivity. You don’t have to go full-on business attire, but getting out of your PJs and into something that makes you feel confident and ready to tackle the day can shift your mindset. As someone currently pregnant, I change from pajamas to leggings and a company-branded t-shirt… but hey, it’s the thought that counts!

7. Create a Dedicated Workspace

Having a designated workspace is crucial. Whether it’s a separate room or just a corner of your living room, make it a place where you can focus and be productive. Keep it organized and free from distractions. I LOVE my little office space (which I do share with my husband, I’ll have a follow-up post on office set ups and sharing a space with a partner later!)

8. Set Boundaries and Stick to Them

Working from home means it’s easy to blur the lines between work and personal time. Set clear boundaries for yourself and communicate them with your family or housemates. This will help you stay focused during work hours and truly unwind when it’s time to clock out. For me, this includes balancing my full-time cybersecurity gig, my business (HI!), and time with my daughter/husband.

9. Take Regular Breaks

Burnout. Is. Real. Make sure to take regular breaks to stretch, walk around, or just take a few deep breaths. It might feel counterintuitive, but these little pauses can actually increase your productivity. And use these breaks to keep your desk space clean, refill drinks, and make sure you don’t get desk chair butt! (which is apparently a real thing, yikes!)

10. Stay Flexible and Adjust as Needed

Finally, remember that routines aren’t set in stone. Life happens, especially when you’re balancing a home business and family. Stay flexible and adjust your routine as needed. The goal is to create a system that works for you, not to add extra stress.

So there you have it, my top tips for building a morning routine that boosts productivity in your home business. Remember, it’s all about finding what works for you and sticking to it. You’ve got this, boss! 💪✨

Until next time!