Creating Your Morning Routine for Productivity

In the world of remote work, the boundary between personal and professional life can blur, leading to either burnout or a lack of productivity. A well-crafted morning routine can set the tone for a successful day, helping you stay focused, energized, and ready to tackle your to-do list. Here’s how to design a productive morning routine tailored to the remote work lifestyle.

1. Wake Up Early and Consistently

I struggle with this one some days but I can say for sure that on the days I wake - and rise! - earlier, there is more flow and productivity!  This gives me the opportunity to move slow, make warm water with lemon and a chai tea, and have a moment before the rest of the house wakes and I need to get into action.

2. Start with Mindfulness

Before diving into your workday, take a few moments for mindfulness. Whether it’s through meditation, deep breathing exercises, or simply sitting quietly with your thoughts, practicing mindfulness can help clear your mind, reduce stress, and set a positive tone for the day ahead. 

I’ve been doing The Morning Pages each morning where I journal a conscious stream of thought for 20 minutes and it’s been such a beautiful way to process what’s stirring around in my mind.

3. Move Your Body

Physical activity is a great way to wake up your body and mind. A morning workout doesn’t have to be intense—a brisk walk, yoga session, or a few stretches can get your blood flowing and boost your energy levels. Regular exercise in the morning can improve your focus, mood, and overall productivity throughout the day. I’ve been practicing Ashtanga yoga for the past 9 months and so after my morning pages, I take 5 minutes to do 10 sun salutations to get my body moving. 

4. Nourish Your Body

After moving your body, refuel with a healthy breakfast. We like to opt for nutrient-rich foods that provide sustained energy, like oatmeal, protein pancakes, smoothies, or eggs and veggie burritos. We try to avoid sugary breakfasts that can lead to energy crashes later in the morning. EXTRA PRO TIP: meal prep breakfasts on the weekends. I made 4 servings of our favorite protein pancakes this past Sunday and that made family breakfast a breeze throughout the week! 

5. Dress for Success

Ok this is a new one for me but it’s been a GAME changer! While one of the perks of remote work is the freedom to wear what you want, getting dressed as if you’re going to the office can make a big difference in your mindset. Dressing up, even slightly, signals to your brain that it’s time to work, not lounge. You’ll likely find that you feel more professional and focused throughout the day.

6. Set Daily Intentions

Before you start working, take a few minutes to set your intentions for the day. Write down your top three priorities or goals that you want to accomplish. This practice helps you stay focused and gives you a sense of purpose as you move through your tasks. Revisit these intentions throughout the day to stay on track.

7. Create or join a Dedicated Workspace

If possible, set up a designated workspace in your home. This doesn’t have to be a full home office—a corner of your living room or a spot at the kitchen table can work, as long as it’s a place where you can focus. Having a dedicated workspace helps create a mental separation between “work mode” and “home mode,” which is crucial for maintaining productivity. 

I created La Colectiva because I know the value of creating separation between where you work and where you live/sleep/eat. It’s helped my mental health immensely and the fact that I can’t interrupt my workflow to do laundry or clean my floors means my productivity is so much stronger! 

8. Review Your Calendar and Plan Your Day

Take a few moments to review your calendar and to-do list for the day. Identify any meetings, deadlines, or important tasks, and plan how you’ll tackle them. Break your day into focused work periods, allowing time for breaks to recharge. Planning your day helps reduce stress and ensures that you’re prepared for whatever comes your way. My daily calendar is time blocked each day for meetings, deep work and task time, and restorative time.

Conclusion

A productive morning routine is more than just a series of tasks—it’s a way to set yourself up for success in your remote workday. By waking up early, practicing mindfulness, staying active, and creating a structured start to your day, you can boost your productivity, maintain work-life balance, and thrive in your remote work environment.

Remember, the key to a successful routine is consistency. Find what works best for you, tweak it as needed, and commit to trying it for a few weeks. Before long, your morning routine will become a powerful tool that helps you achieve your professional goals while supporting your well-being.