Several years ago, I decided to build a barn. I had a spot in mind, but I wasn’t ready to start the building process. I had to cut down trees, bring in dirt to level the area, and spread and pack rock to provide a firm underlayment.
Finally, I had to dig footers and pour a solid foundation. If I skipped any of these steps, the barn would struggle to stand when a storm hit, and over time, it would collapse.
If we believe that preparation is important when building a barn, why do we reject this truth when it comes to ourselves?
My sixth core conviction is “mornings matter.” I think it is one of the biggest missing elements in most professionals’ lives. How you start your day directly influences how you are going to win that day. For me, a great morning routine is essential. It includes feeding my mind, heart, and body before I go out and take care of everybody else in my world.
"Plant your seed in the morning and keep busy all afternoon, for you don’t know if profit will come from one activity or another—or maybe both." (Ecclesiastes 11:6)
My morning routine begins with reading my Bible and a couple of devotional books. I also write, taking notes about what I am reading and journaling my thoughts. Journaling allows me to process what is going on in my life and take anxious thoughts captive. This frees me up to think about other, more important things.
Next, I pray and meditate. I think a grateful heart is critical. Prayer and meditation help me reset my gratitude every day.
Finally, I exercise. Taking care of myself physically not only makes me healthier, but it also gives me more energy and confidence, which fuels my productivity and enables me to better care for others.
You are worth taking care of first. If you don’t, you can’t be your best. For me, it is important to do these things before I begin my day. Otherwise, I lack consistency. One more thing—making my morning routine my most important priority means no excuses for missing it. Period.
Don’t you want to build your life on solid ground? Prepare your foundation first thing each day. Mornings matter!
Father, grant me the wisdom and the discipline to establish a life-giving morning routine.
