not only set yourself up to be the boss of your day, but you also activate your
greatest self.
- I plan my quitting time.
Here’s something else I learned from research. In addition to planning my day, I
also plan the time I will stop working. That’s right. Every day, when I start my day, I
determine what time I will stop working and hang out with my family. Having a
deadline for stopping or redirecting does two things: it makes me more intentional
with the time I have and that makes me more productive.
There’s a principle called Parkinson’s Law—work expands to whatever time you
give it. So give your workday a deadline. A deadline is important for stamina and
mental health. It forces you to focus and be serious about taking the break from
work. It’s a break that we all need to be present with our families and give our
brains the time to rest, recharge, and reset that they require. I’m not going to lie,
I’ve had to use the rule to force myself 5- 4- 3- 2- 1 to turn off the computer to
stop working for the day more often than I would like to admit.
Using this daily routine has helped immeasurably. It is how I put my priorities
ahead of putting out daily fires. I feel more in control because I own my actions
from the moment the alarm rings. I have more clarity (which helps spot
opportunities) because I’ve defined the 2-3 big picture musts that will move my
goals forward.
If I notice myself detouring from my routine or getting distracted, that’s a
moment of power. I use the Rule, 5- 4- 3- 2- 1 to get back on track. Of course, you
can create any routine that works, but if you are looking for a way to start, try mine.
Lots of people have found great success adding exercise, meditation, and gratitude
lists to their morning routines. Road test them all to see what works best for you.