6 morning routine mistakes to avoid that could cost you productivity

1. Forcing yourself to get an early start

The pressure of knowing that highly-successful people start their day at the crack of dawn could make it tempting to spring out of bed at an ungodly hour. But everyone requires different hours of sleep for maximum productivity – what matters is how you use that morning time to get you going for the day.

2. Sleeping in too late

There is a fine line, however, between getting needed ZZZs and lazing. How you spend the first hour of the day could determine the rest of your waking and working hours, making it a really important time for healthy and advantageous habits. Experiment with your morning routine and figure out what suits you best.

3. Checking your phone in bed

It’s an impulsive habit that’s hard to break but checking your phone the second you open your eyes will likely derail your day before it’s even started. Instead, take a few minutes to stretch yourself out of bed, think through your priorities for the day ahead and plan with a calm mind.

4. Skipping breakfast

Do you know of anyone who can truly function while running on empty? And not just function, but be focused and productive! A morning meal provides the vital energy you’ll need to start your day. Be realistic about what you have time to prepare – this will help you avoid just binging on coffee.

5. Not preparing the night before

Towards the end of your workday, or while winding down at home in the evening, take the time to prepare a plan for the following day, including seeing what calls or meetings you have scheduled. This will instantly set your mind on the right path the next morning, giving you the mental space to think, be creative or strategise.

6. Multitasking

Of course, multitasking at work is inevitable. But in that morning slot, attempt to monotask, that is, focus on just one task at hand for a period of time and allow your brain to concentrate on it without multiple distractions. This may take some getting used to – but is well worth the effort.