I was wrong

(about my morning routine)

A couple months ago I had written about how morning routines are a waste of time. I said that I was getting more done by getting into work immediately upon waking.

I was wrong (at least for me). Let me explain.

At first this strategy was great because I felt like I was getting more done. I was posting stuff daily, and cranking out code and blog posts left and right.

But I started to notice that I was neglecting the activities in my life that are a net-positive like meditation, yoga, journaling, and reading.

Specifically meditation makes me a better person because I’m able to notice my experiences more deliberately—I am less reactive, less angry, and living with more equanimity.

I told myself that I would get to these energy-giving practices later… but I never did. I was less aware, less mindful. I started drinking more (because I was less aware), and I wasn’t taking care of myself in the ways that I should have.

So as I walk back my previous conviction in getting-to-work-immediately-upon-rising, I’ll gladly champion a new approach: just do what works for you.

Now, there certainly is a ton of truth in getting to work sooner rather than later. (You can go read the original post but basically it boils down to having a clear mind, making it easier to focus.)

But now my routine consists of meditating, making coffee, and maybe some light reading. It’s still much shorter than what I had done for years which would take anywhere from one to two hours. Yikes. Today, it’s closer to 15-30 minutes, and it works for me. I’m as productive and happy as ever.

Keep experimenting. Stay curious.