How to Control Your Day with a Morning Routine
As a busy solo or small firm attorney, your mornings can often set the tone for the rest of the day. Starting your day in reactive mode — scrambling to check emails, responding to urgent client calls, or rushing to court — can leave you feeling stressed and behind. On the other hand, a structured morning routine can help you take control, prioritize effectively, and make progress toward your goals.
I have a pre-scripted morning routine that I follow without fail. This helps me to know exactly what I am going to do in the course of the day, as well as how much of that day it will take to accomplish all of it. It keeps me focused and increases productivity, which in turn reduces stress because I am getting things done and not letting anything slip through the cracks.
Building Your Routine
But everyone’s practice, and situation, is different. I can outline mine in great detail, but it may well do you no good. So to help you build your own, here are five actionable tips to build a morning routine that helps you feel organized, energized, and in command of your practice.
1. Start With a Win: Use the First 10 Minutes to Prepare Mentally
How you begin your day often determines your mindset for the hours ahead. Instead of diving straight into work or scrolling through your phone, dedicate the first 10 minutes to something that grounds you and sets a positive tone.
Example: Practice gratitude by writing down three things you’re thankful for. Alternatively, take five deep breaths or spend a few moments visualizing a successful day. This small habit can help reduce stress and increase your focus.
2. Plan Your Day the Night Before
Many attorneys lose valuable time in the morning deciding what to tackle first. By planning your top priorities the night before, you eliminate decision fatigue and start your day with a clear sense of direction. It’s like laying out your clothes for the following day before you go to bed.
Example: Before you leave your office or shut down for the evening, write down the three most important tasks you need to accomplish the next day. Use a tool like a daily planner or a task management app such as Trello or Todoist. When you start your morning, focus on those tasks before attending to emails or other distractions.
3. Block Time for High-Value Work
For most attorneys, the first few hours of the workday are when energy and focus are at their peak. Leverage this by dedicating time in the morning to high-value tasks, such as preparing for court, drafting complex documents, or working on marketing initiatives for your firm. I have certainly found this true for myself; my energy levels drop after lunch. That’s why I have consultations and client meetings in the afternoon.
Example: Use time-blocking to reserve one or two hours in the morning for deep, focused work. For instance, schedule from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. as “protected time” where no interruptions or meetings are allowed. Communicate this boundary to staff and clients if necessary.
4. Incorporate Physical Movement
Physical activity in the morning doesn’t just benefit your health—it can also boost your energy, focus, and mood. Even a short walk or a quick stretch can make a big difference in how you approach your day.
Example: Spend 10-15 minutes doing light exercise, such as yoga, stretching, or walking outside. If you’re pressed for time, try a quick workout app or a simple routine at home. Regular movement can help reduce stress and keep your mind sharp throughout the day.
5. Limit Reactive Tasks Like Email and Social Media
Facebook, Twitter, and e-mail are a time suck! Jumping into email or social media first thing in the morning often puts you in reactive mode, where your priorities are dictated by others, and this is where you are most likely to lose time. Instead, set boundaries around these activities so you can focus on what truly matters.
Example: Establish a “no email until 10 a.m.” rule (mine is no e-mail until after lunch), or set specific times during the day for checking email. Use tools like inbox filters to prioritize urgent messages and prevent your inbox from becoming a time sink. Outlook has a feature called “Focused” that serves up only the most important messages.
Bonus Tip: Create a “Wind-Up” Routine That Works for You
A morning routine isn’t one-size-fits-all. The key is to design a sequence of activities that energize you and set you up for success. Experiment with different practices to find what resonates with you, and then make it a habit.
For example, your morning routine might look like this:
- 6:30 a.m. – Wake up and spend 10 minutes journaling or practicing gratitude.
- 6:45 a.m. – Do a 15-minute yoga session or go for a brisk walk.
- 7:00 a.m. – Review your top three priorities for the day.
- 7:15 a.m. – Eat a healthy breakfast and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea.
- 7:30 a.m. – Start your deep work time block.
These times can be later if you’re not a morning person.
Final Thoughts
Building a consistent morning routine can help you feel more in control of your day and your practice. By starting with intentionality, focusing on high-value tasks, and setting boundaries around distractions, you’ll find that your mornings become a powerful foundation for long-term success.
What changes will you make to your morning routine this week? Start small and watch how even minor adjustments can transform your day.
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