I read the article below a few years ago, and just came across it again today. How do you start your day?
It reminded me of how we should be try to be present in every moment and live life consciously, instead of spending our days rushing mindlessly through our very tightly packed schedules.
It was nice to see that this information was as much an ‘AHA’ moment today as it was those years ago. Even I run off track some of the time.
As much as I enjoy most everything I do, there are times when I get to the end of the day and wonder, “Did I extract all of the life and joy from this day or did I just move through it?”
How did you start your day today? And perhaps more importantly, how will you start it tomorrow? Here’s Mark’s article on starting your day on your own terms and with intention…
Start Your Day On Your Terms
Most of us start the day like we’re trying to catch a train. We wake up, grab a cup of coffee, look at the paper and listen to the news.
We rush out of the house to make an appointment or deadline or to put the finishing touches on a project.
From deadline to appointment it goes. When we leave work we have other responsibilities and obligations, and it doesn’t end until we go to sleep, and for some it still doesn’t end. We never do catch the train.
We forgot one essential thing. We are the conductor and the train can’t go anywhere without us.
What if you knew deep inside that the train was not going anywhere? What would it take to develop the wisdom that there was a better way? What changes could you implement that would make a difference?
I was a busy trial lawyer for thirty years, always running to catch the train. I still remember racing to the court room full of coffee and stress until I realized I was the conductor of my life.
That realization allowed me to make life altering changes that continue to make my life more enjoyable, more successful and more fulfilling.
It all starts with creating your perfect morning.
This is your morning, no one else’s.
Consider waking up to music you love, rather than to the music or news on your alarm clock. Then before doing anything else take 10-15 minutes and sit silently thinking about all you’re grateful for.
Then start to wonder what the highlight of your day could be. From this new vantage point you might even skip that cup of coffee or that cigarette.
As you leave your house and begin the flow of your day you look at each experience and wonder if this is going to be the highpoint of your day knowing there is more to come.
The concept of looking at the highlight of the day can be used in any situation even one that seems unpleasant.
Looking for the highlight in this experience or this person can totally change your attitude. As the day unfolds, if you sense that things inside are heating up, consider taking a little break.
You might even stretch for five minutes or walk around the block. As your day progresses the biggest difference is the knowledge that you can be busy and be relaxed.
I have found that starting the day this way increases my energy and efficiency throughout the day. When I leave my house centered and focused there is a much greater likelihood that I can maintain this balance throughout the day.
There has been plenty of research by psychologists demonstrating the value of taking the time for morning meditation or creative silence.
I have been doing this for over thirty years and very rarely feel overwhelmed. I laugh more and generally enjoy my day.
Of course I have my challenges and lose my focus periodically, but not for long. And before I go to sleep I again think about what was most special about this day.
The one thing I do know for certain is that there’s a direct correlation between how I start my day and the quality of my life. Try a little experiment. For the next thirty days start your day on your own terms and discover the dramatic changes that are possible.
By Mark Susnow
Mark Susnow has a unique background. Formerly a successful trial attorney for 30 years, as well as musician, he integrates what it takes to be truly prosperous in the world with the inner wisdom unfolded to him through years of yoga and meditation practice.
As a personal coach, leadership consultant and inspirational speaker, Mark provides inspiration and motivation to many business leaders and professionals. He knows what it means to have a big vision and has demonstrated the courage and energy it takes to accomplish it.
Consider contacting Mark, and be sure to visit his website: Inspire Possibility
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