"The first hour of the morning is the rudder of the day."
– Henry Ward Beecher
How do you start your day?
Many people hit the snooze button a couple of times, jump out of bed, get ready for and rush off to work.
In this world of busyness, I'd like to suggest that you decide to be different. As the quote above suggests, how you spend the first few minutes sets the tone and direction for your day.
I am convinced you will enjoy life more and be more effective if you start your day slowly. Grab a cup of coffee, settle in your favorite chair, and spend some time in solitude. (It doesn't have to be an hour. 15 - 30 minutes works just fine.)
What do you do during that time?
Here are a few ideas:
Read something inspirational.
Pray. (Make it more 'thank you' than 'give me.')
Reflect on the day before. What went well, what didn't go so well and how you can make today better.
Develop or reflect on your personal values and decide to live them out in the next 24 hours.
Practice gratitude.
Journal
Meditate
Visualize the day ahead with you being your best and giving your best.
Do you have a long commute and need to leave very early in the morning? Perhaps you practice solitude on your commute.
Do you have children who wake up early in the morning? Perhaps you practice solitude during your child's nap time.
Don't make excuses, make a way.
We have all heard of the concept of 'core training' in the arena of fitness. I think of solitude as 'spiritual core training.' It helps develop inner strength.
Practicing solitude also helps you enjoy life more. And if you are not enjoying life, others won't enjoy you.
In a world obsessed with busyness and doing, spend some time focusing on 'being'. Being the person you want to become.
"You can't wait for inspiration.
You have to go after it with a club."
- Jack London