The holiday season is such a wonderful time of year, but let’s be honest—it can also be a whirlwind of chaos. Between shopping, decorating, planning gatherings, and meeting end-of-year work deadlines, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why I rely on a solid morning routine to keep me grounded and productive before the holiday rush kicks into full gear. I’ve found that starting my day with intention not only helps me stay on top of my to-do list but also keeps the stress at bay so I can actually enjoy the season. Here’s what my morning routine looks like and how it helps me stay productive during the holidays.
Step 1: Wake Up Early and Embrace Quiet Time
I’m not naturally a morning person, but waking up early during this busy time of year makes such a huge difference. There’s something magical about those quiet early hours when the world hasn’t woken up yet. No emails, no notifications, no distractions—just me and my thoughts. I’ll usually pour myself a cup of coffee or tea and spend 10-15 minutes journaling or simply sitting in silence. This small act helps me mentally prepare for the day ahead and sets a calm tone before the hustle begins.
Step 2: Move My Body
I’ve learned the hard way that skipping exercise during busy times only leaves me feeling more sluggish and stressed. So, I make it a point to include some form of movement in my morning routine. For me, this could be a 20-minute yoga session, a quick walk around the neighborhood, or even a short workout video. Getting my blood flowing not only gives me a boost of energy but also clears my head, making me more focused and ready to tackle my day.
Step 3: Plan the Day Ahead
I’m a firm believer that the key to staying productive is having a plan. After exercising, I’ll sit down with my planner and map out my priorities for the day. During the holidays, my to-do list is usually longer than usual, so I focus on just three main tasks I want to accomplish. Whether it’s buying gifts, prepping for a holiday dinner, or wrapping up a work project, having clear priorities helps me feel less scattered and more in control. I’ll also review upcoming holiday events or deadlines to make sure I’m staying on track.
Step 4: Fuel Up with a Healthy Breakfast
When life gets busy, it’s tempting to skip breakfast or grab something quick and unhealthy. But I’ve found that taking the time to make a nutritious meal in the morning really sets me up for success. My go-to is a bowl of oatmeal topped with fruit and nuts or avocado toast with a side of eggs. A solid breakfast keeps my energy levels steady and prevents me from feeling hangry when I’m out running errands later in the day.
Step 5: Knock Out a Quick Task
Before diving into the bigger items on my to-do list, I like to start with one small, easy task. It could be something as simple as replying to an email, organizing my workspace, or doing a quick load of laundry. Crossing one thing off my list early gives me a little momentum and makes the rest of my tasks feel more manageable.
Why Morning Routines Matter During the Holidays
For me, the biggest benefit of having a morning routine during the holidays is the sense of structure and control it provides. It’s so easy to get swept up in the busyness of the season and feel like there’s never enough time to get everything done. But by sticking to my routine, I can approach each day with a clear head and a focused mindset. It’s not about being perfect or accomplishing everything—it’s about creating a foundation of calm and productivity that carries me through the chaos.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed this holiday season, I encourage you to give a morning routine a try. Start small—maybe just wake up 15 minutes earlier to enjoy a cup of coffee in peace or make a list of your top priorities for the day. You might be surprised at how much of a difference it makes. For me, these simple habits have been a game-changer, allowing me to stay productive, reduce stress, and actually savor the magic of the holidays.
Practical advice for developing efficient morning habits to maximize productivity during the busy holiday season.