About two months ago, my wife proposed a few yard projects we need to do this year. Some projects can depend on temperature or seasons so that they can be tricky. For example, she insisted that we do deck staining this year. My wife planned to do this sometime this summer.
My wife usually plans projects for at least several months to eliminate any obstacles to completing a project ahead of time. Her problem is that she needs more time since she is busy.
Deck staining demands many external conditions, which we need to watch for. She told me the deck must be stained when the temperature is 50F to 90F without rain for at least 24 hours. That eliminated substantial summer days. The ideal temperature would be Spring. However, we got a lot of rain in Nashville in the spring, so she did not want to do this project in the spring. So, we have between September and October to do this project.
There is something we can do ahead of time. For example, we can clean our deck beforehand so that the deck will be easy to sand and stain.
My wife combined two projects at once. One was to clean the siding of our house and the deck. She wanted to rent a power washer from a nearby Home Depot so we could do both simultaneously. She took a day off this Friday, Thursday, and Friday of the upcoming week. The following week is a long weekend, so it would be the perfect time for a project like cleaning and washing.
After my run, we did some yard work to prepare for winter and the upcoming projects we have been forming. Today, we wanted to remove any weeds or extra trees that may interrupt our side or deck washing.
Afterward, we got some delicious gyro plates from a nearby restaurant. I also completed my daily chores: bottled kombucha, did laundry, and put it away. So I called, and today was our successful day.
Over the past few weeks, I’ve introduced some new routines into my daily life, including running and lawn mowing. While these activities are refreshing and beneficial, they’ve also presented challenges, particularly in maintaining my schedule. I’ve found it difficult to complete my tasks as smoothly as I would like, and it’s made me reflect on how we often need to make adjustments when we introduce something new into our lives. When you’re trying something unfamiliar, it’s common to tweak your routine multiple times before it feels right and fits seamlessly into your lifestyle. Without these adjustments, there’s a risk of falling into a pattern of making excuses to avoid specific tasks, especially the more daunting ones. Eventually, you might stop doing them altogether.
In my case, I’ve been trying to juggle multiple responsibilities—on top of my new running and mowing schedule; I still want to keep up with my regular chores, like laundry and vacuuming the house. It’s a balancing act, and I’ve noticed that when I try to pack too much into a single day, I get exhausted relatively quickly. The summer heat in Nashville only intensifies this fatigue, making it even harder to stay on top of everything. I realized that if I didn’t find a way to manage my time and energy better, I might start dropping some of these activities, which I didn’t want to happen.
After some trial and error, I discovered that the key to improving my routines—running, kombucha bottling, or laundry—was to start earlier. This simple change has made a significant difference. For example, I’ve started bottling kombucha and doing laundry a day earlier than I used to. Additionally, I’ve begun running and lawn mowing several hours earlier in the day. These adjustments have been surprisingly effective.
I implemented my new laundry plan this week, and it’s been a success. Instead of doing all the laundry in one go, I’ve split the tasks across two days. I tackle some of the laundry on Thursday and finish the rest on Friday. This change has had a positive ripple effect on my running routine. I’m not as exhausted as I used to be, so I have more energy left for my runs later in the day. In fact, I beat my target pace while running this morning—a small victory that felt incredibly rewarding. It’s incredible how a few simple tweaks can lead to such noticeable improvements in multiple areas of life.
From this experience, I’ve learned that starting tasks earlier not only helps me get them done more efficiently but also reduces the mental burden of having to begin them in the first place. There’s something liberating about knowing that I’ve already checked off a significant part of my to-do list by the time the day is in full swing. It’s one less thing to worry about, and that peace of mind is invaluable.
Looking forward, when I think about new routines or habits I want to develop, I’ll keep this lesson in mind: start earlier than necessary. This approach not only sets me up for success but also opens the door to further improvements down the line. While I might find opportunities to refine these routines in the future, for now, I’m satisfied with the progress I’ve made. It’s a good reminder that the most minor changes can sometimes have the most significant impact.
My day begins between 5:15 and 5:30 a.m. without the jolt of an alarm clock; I wake naturally when my body is ready. To ensure I get the requisite seven hours of sleep, as tracked by my Fitbit, I aim to be in bed by 9 p.m. Sleeping less than this leads to a sluggish day, as I typically lose approximately an hour to wakefulness through the night.
How I start my day is essential—it sets the tone for everything that follows. My morning routine spans from the moment I wake until about 8 a.m., with slight modifications on the days I head into the office by 7 a.m. Nonetheless, I completed most of my routine by the 8 o’clock mark.
via. NightCafe
Harnessing the Morning Light With Early Morning Run
Running in the early morning has become a vital part of my daily routine, not only for the physical benefits but also for the incredible surge of energy it provides. Stepping out into the morning light, I feel as though it infuses me with vitality—an uplifting experience I only discovered after moving to Nashville. Previously, while living in Canada, my runs were typically scheduled during lunch or post-work due to shorter, colder days.
Nashville’s climate posed new challenges with its hot, humid afternoons, making morning runs a more appealing option. Despite the summer heat, morning temperatures here hover between 68°F and 72°F (20C to 22C), which is quite comfortable for running. Even in winter, the occasional freezing temperatures don’t last, making it easier to maintain my routine.
I was annoyed to wake up early to run. However, the benefits soon became apparent once I started running in the morning. The morning light, I learned, plays a crucial role in regulating our internal clock, or circadian rhythm. According to research by Walker et al., consistent exposure to the natural light-dark cycle helps prevent mood and sleep disorders. It can even reduce the risk of chronic diseases (pp.2 – pp.3).
Realizing the profound impact of morning light, I reshuffled my routine to include runs every morning. On office days, I limit myself to a 3km run. This adjustment has allowed me to enjoy the energizing effects of morning exercise without overwhelming my schedule. Now, running isn’t just a part of my routine—it’s a therapeutic start to my day, enhancing my well-being and keeping my internal clock in check.
From Movement to Mindfulness
Running isn’t just a physical activity for me; it’s a powerful catalyst for creativity. As I run, blood circulates vigorously throughout my body, enriching my brain with oxygen and inspiring a flood of ideas. This period of physical exertion becomes a prime time for brainstorming, often leading me to exciting insights and solutions.
Previously, I would listen to audiobooks to pass the time while running, but I found that it stifled my creative process. The audio content overwhelmed my thoughts, blocking the natural flow of ideas. One day, I chose silence over soundtracks; the impact was immediate and profound.
To capture the surge of ideas post-run, I immediately began journaling on my phone before taking a post-run shower. I realized the action of taking a shower made me forget the ideas I generated during my run. So, recording my thoughts became the priority. I use the Notion app on my mobile phone for its accessibility and ease. With just a few taps, I can open the app and log everything that crossed my mind during my run, ensuring that I can revisit and utilize these insights later, all without missing a step in my cool-down routine.
Roma Wasn’t Built In a Day, Nor will be my German.
Dedicating time to learning German is vital to my daily routine, though it might seem modest at first glance. On weekdays, I manage to carve out about 20 minutes, while weekends allow for a more extended study session of 40-50 minutes. Despite the packed nature of my schedule, these 20 minutes are a window where I aim to absorb at least one or two new words each day.
My approach to learning is structured: About 25-30% of my time is spent acquiring new content, and the remainder is devoted to reviewing previous lessons. This method ensures that each new information is reinforced and stored in my long-term memory. On Saturdays, I revisit the material from the last week, and Sundays are reserved for reviewing what I learned a month ago.
This rigorous review process means that most of what I learn becomes deeply embedded in my long-term memory. This gradual, consistent approach works best for me. Learning a little each day and accumulating knowledge over time proves to be more effective and less stressful than trying to cram and risking burnout. It’s a gentle, steady pace—much like a toddler’s steps—that leads to lasting progress.
The Power of Morning Journaling
After I take a shower, I start writing on Morning Journals. The morning journal serves as my mental cleansing ritual, where I offload the clutter from my mind. With this process, focusing on my morning meditation is likely due to the constant barrage of thoughts about upcoming tasks.
This technique was inspired by Julia Cameron’s book The Artist’s Way, where she introduces the concept of “morning pages.” I’ve adapted it into what I call my morning journal. Constantly interrupting what I need to be next prevents me from creating ideas. Not surprisingly, many of these are to-do items, reflecting my preoccupation with what needs to be done next.
My English professor used to tell me to try to make a draft without thinking about grammar first. Now I see her point. This stream of consciousness often reveals how these incessant thoughts prevent me from listening to my inner voice. They keep me tied to a routine, doing what needs to be done rather than what I desire to do. The routine becomes monotonous and controlling.
After journaling, I reflect on what I’ve written and identify the tasks that genuinely resonate with me—those that will bring me joy upon completion. It’s a small practice but has gradually led to deeper self-understanding and a more fulfilling daily life.
Organizing the Day by Crafting an Effective To-Do List
Immediately after journaling each morning, I transition to creating my daily to-do list. I select a few tasks from my morning journal entries and record them in a dotted notebook, which I’ve found more effective than the Post-it notes and Google Calendar methods I used previously.
Drawing from my experience in project management, I approach my personal tasks with similar strategic planning. For any project to be managed effectively, it’s crucial to break down tasks thoroughly, understand their sequence, and recognize dependencies and potential roadblocks—like needing your boss’s approval before proceeding. I’ve honed this detailed structuring over years of managing projects.
Once I’ve laid out my tasks, prioritization is my next step. I determine the most critical tasks and assign them to my peak productivity hours, usually between 10 a.m. and noon. I use Google Calendar for scheduling, which helps me maintain a balanced daily workload and ensures I can handle my challenges.
Not every day is perfect; sometimes, tasks remain unfinished. In such cases, my notebook becomes especially valuable. At the end of each day, I jot down “lessons learned,” reflecting on why I could not complete them. This practice is not just about record-keeping; it’s a tool for continual improvement, allowing me to reflect on my days and improve my productivity over time.
Ritual of My Short Morning Meditation
I have discovered that a brief morning meditation provides a refreshing start to my day. While these sessions are too short to yield significant physiological benefits, they are crucial in setting a positive tone for the day ahead. This practice began as an experiment in April 2024, driven by curiosity, and has since evolved into a cherished part of my morning routine.
Initially, I struggled to establish a consistent meditation habit and found it difficult to focus during these sessions. However, by scheduling meditation after completing my to-do list, I removed the distraction of pending tasks, allowing me to engage more fully with the practice. This sequence helps me clear my mind and approach the day with a calm, focused mindset.
Even when I go to our office, I make sure to fit in a concise meditation. This practice helps center me no matter the length, ensuring I start my day with a clear and focused intention.
Integrating Daily Study Sessions into Lifelong Learning
I dedicate 30-45 minutes to learning after my morning meditation. My approach to continuing education is broad and systematic, incorporating a variety of topics to keep my knowledge base diverse and current. I follow a yearly learning plan, which I adjust monthly based on my immediate needs or if an urgent work requirement demands specific expertise.
Holding several professional designations requires me to complete 30-40 hours of continuing education annually. My morning study sessions contribute significantly towards this goal, allowing me to accumulate approximately 100 hours of continuing education each year. This practice of learning new things not only enriches my professional skills but also energizes me, fueling my enthusiasm for the day ahead.
After absorbing new information, I take a minute to jot down key points on a letter-sized paper. This quick summary helps cement my understanding and provides a reference for future use, often proving invaluable for solving work-related challenges or everyday issues.
Lessons in Persistence Inspired by Ancient Wisdom and My Husband
The ancient Chinese believed that even the gentle drip of water could eventually wear through rock, given enough time. This principle of persistence resonates deeply with me and has influenced the development of my morning routine. While some may view my structured mornings as a sign of hard work, they are more of a commitment to gradual, consistent effort.
My husband’s journey has been a profound inspiration in this regard. After a severe stroke robbed him of his mobility, he had to relearn basic skills one small step at a time. Through unwavering persistence, he runs 10km—better than ever before his stroke—and has regained nearly all his pre-stroke abilities, including cooking and baking. His recovery has been a powerful reminder that small, consistent efforts can lead to significant achievements.
Incorporating activities like waking early, running, and meditating into my routine wasn’t initially enjoyable, yet I recognized their benefits for my productivity. I often started new habits in the past, only to abandon them when they felt uncomfortable. However, influenced by my husband’s example, I adopted a strategy of small, incremental changes, trusting that these efforts would accumulate and become ingrained in my routine. Adapting to include meditation regularly was challenging, but now it’s a seamless part of my morning.
By the time I complete these activities, I am fully prepared to tackle the day’s work or household chores. Despite originally being a night owl, I’ve discovered that an early start leads to a more productive, energized day. Due to time constraints, I often move through my morning tasks with a sense of urgency, which adds intensity to the process. This brisk start charges me up and creates momentum that carries me through the rest of the day with vitality and purpose.
Reference
Walker, W. H., Walton, James C., DeVrie, A. C., & Nelson, R. J. (2020). Circadian rhythm disruption and mental health. Translational Psychiatry, 1–13. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41398-020-0694-0
We’ve been gifted a free Saturday for the first time in several weeks. It’s been a hectic period, and this reprieve feels like a gentle exhale. While our usual chores beckon, there are no additional errands, family visits, or specific shopping trips crowding our agenda. The next burst of activity won’t come until the end of June when we venture out to pick blueberries.
In my mind, we were completely obligation-free. However, I quickly discovered that was only my perspective. As I settled into what I thought would be a lazy morning, I wandered into my room only to hear about my wife’s detailed cleaning agenda for the weekend. She’s set her sights on tackling the garage and reorganizing our storage room/pantry in preparation for the bustling month of June. Post-July will be dominated by our annual canning spree, making this the perfect time for such endeavors.
I’ve promised to assist with clearing out and tidying up whatever she deems necessary on this relatively calm Saturday. Aside from the cleaning, she’s also planned to whip up another batch of homemade tofu and has tasked me with bottling the kombucha, which I aim to do right after breakfast.
Though initially, I pictured a day spent lounging; my Saturday will be productive in a different yet equally satisfying way. Engaging in these practical tasks not only prepares us for the busier days ahead but also brings a sense of accomplishment and readiness for whatever the weeks ahead throw our way.
Momentum is a potent force that propels us forward, helping us conquer a plethora of tasks with increasing energy. Over the past several days, I have been riding this wave of momentum, tackling numerous tasks with a surprising vigor. Initially, my motivation was purely preventative; I did not want to let small, manageable tasks snowball into urgent, overwhelming challenges due to procrastination.
As I began to chip away at my to-do list, I decided to pair this activity with listening to audiobooks. This combination turned out to be incredibly effective. To my amazement, the more tasks I completed, the more energy I found for future tasks. This productivity cycle left me feeling quite satisfied with my accomplishments, especially yesterday when I checked off nearly everything on my list.
One of the tasks I had set for myself was to clear the back of our house from overgrown vines. Unfortunately, a bout of rain came through, slightly altering my plans. Despite this, I made significant headway and am poised to finish up tomorrow, right after I tackle the week’s mowing.
Although the day left me feeling physically drained, the sense of accomplishment I experienced was profound and overwhelmingly positive. A unique satisfaction comes from looking over a to-do list that’s been mostly conquered. It not only demonstrates what you have achieved but also clears the space for new tasks that might arise before the next surge of energy is needed.
This process of building and maintaining momentum has profound implications for task completion, personal growth, and satisfaction. By actively engaging in our daily chores and responsibilities and enhancing the experience with enjoyable activities like listening to audiobooks, we can transform seemingly mundane tasks into opportunities for learning and achievement.
What’s particularly intriguing about momentum is how it feeds into itself. The more you accomplish, the more you feel capable of accomplishing. This self-perpetuating cycle can lead us to new heights of productivity and personal fulfillment. It’s akin to a snowball rolling down a hill, gathering speed and size; as our list of completed tasks grows, so does our energy and capacity to handle more.
Moreover, breaking down tasks into manageable parts and ticking them off one by one helps reduce procrastination and make the tasks seem less daunting. Regardless of size, progress fuels our motivation and pushes us to keep moving forward.
For anyone struggling to find the drive to tackle their daily or weekly tasks, consider this approach: Start small tasks that are enjoyable to accompany the less exciting chores, and watch as your momentum builds. You might find that the energy to continue will come naturally, and your productivity will soar as a result.
In conclusion, the power of momentum is an extraordinary tool in our personal and professional lives. It transforms our approach to tasks from tedious to engaging, energizing activity, promoting continuous personal growth and efficiency. Harness this energy, and you’ll be surprised at how much you can achieve and how good it will make you feel.
Returning from vacation often brings a mixed bag of emotions. The joy of experiencing new places and creating memories with loved ones is invariably tinged with the inevitable return to the mundane tasks of daily life. As I find myself back home, the reality of several pending tasks swiftly pulls me from my holiday high back to the ground.
Today, my to-do list is longer than usual, brimming with those small yet pesky tasks I’ve postponed. These tasks, while minor, have a way of accumulating, especially after a vacation when we’ve been busier than ever. Thankfully, these tasks haven’t escalated to critical levels yet, but it’s only a matter of time. With this looming deadline, I’ve resolved to tackle them head-on before they grow into urgent problems.
Unlike my wife, who meticulously documents every task in her notes, I tend to keep a mental checklist. She intersperses these tasks between her larger projects, methodically working through her list. In contrast, my approach is to elevate the urgency of these tasks, as I did yesterday, to barrel through them with momentum fueled by a self-imposed sense of urgency. This method differs from my wife’s more systematic strategy but suits my style better.
Despite their small scale, these tasks are significant enough to eat into my leisure time. However, the prospect of clearing them off my mental slate is appealing. It promises a return to tranquility, free from the nagging reminders of unfinished business lurking in my mind.
The beauty of handling these post-vacation tasks lies in the subtle balance between urgency and importance. Some tasks require minimal mental effort, which allows me to multitask effectively. I often find myself listening to an audiobook while sorting through these tasks. This not only makes the process less tedious but also somewhat enjoyable. It’s a clever way to blend productivity with leisure, turning a potentially dull routine into an enriching experience.
Handling these tasks also involves a shift in mindset. On days like today, when the list seems daunting, I adjust the importance I attach to these tasks. By mentally categorizing them as more critical, I create a sense of urgency that helps me push through them quickly. This psychological trick not only accelerates my progress but also enhances my focus.
Moreover, my approach to task management reflects a broader philosophy of life: adaptability. While my wife’s methodical approach has merits, my approach’s flexibility allows me to adjust as needed, responding to the demands of the moment without becoming entrenched in a rigid system. It’s about finding what works best on a personal level and leveraging it to maintain productivity and balance.
Ultimately, the goal is to catch up on these minor yet necessary maintenance tasks. Completing them not only clears the physical space around us but also declutters our minds. It’s about restoring order and making room for new experiences without the overhead of unresolved chores.
As I continue my day, ticking tasks off my mental list, I’m reminded of the importance of staying on top of these small responsibilities. They might not be the most thrilling part of my day, but strategically managing them ensures these tiny tasks don’t accumulate into a daunting backlog. It’s a crucial part of maintaining my physical space and mental peace, allowing me to fully enjoy the relaxation after all the work is done.
Yesterday marked a significant stride in my running journey, seeing me meet and surpass my target pace. This achievement was particularly gratifying after several challenging days, notably affected by the recent time change. Surprisingly, this adjustment to daylight saving time, which often disrupts routines, turned out to favor my running schedule. The crisp, pleasant weather further contributed to this unexpected success, proving once again how external conditions can impact athletic performance.
Reflecting on my run, I’ve begun to identify the specific speed I need to maintain to achieve my new, more ambitious pace. Tomorrow’s run will be a crucial test of this insight, determining whether I can consistently meet this enhanced standard. It’s an exciting prospect and adds a layer of intrigue to my usual routine.
Aside from running, my day was filled with other mundane but necessary tasks. The good weather wasn’t just perfect for running; it was ideal for yard work, too. With my to-do list in mind and the sun shining favorably, I set out to mow the lawn, an activity that, while routine, was enjoyable thanks to the day’s clear skies.
Typically, my Thursdays are reserved for gaming sessions with friends. These gatherings are not just about playing video games; they’re a cherished opportunity for camaraderie and relaxation. However, this weekend was different. My friends were out of town, making our usual online meet-up impossible. While I missed the banter and the competitive spirit of our games, their absence allowed me to focus more on my chores without the usual rush to finish before our session began.
This shift in schedule was a mixed blessing. On the one hand, I missed the laughter and shared excitement that our gaming sessions bring. On the other, having no time constraints made it easier to complete my tasks at a relaxed pace, which was unexpectedly satisfying.
Over the past few weeks, I’ve been diligently working to improve my running speed, a goal that often seemed elusive. Yesterday’s performance was a beacon of progress, illuminating what is possible with persistence and favorable conditions. It was a reminder that sometimes, the elements align to reward our efforts when we least expect it.
In essence, the day blended personal achievement and the simple pleasures of daily life. Whether it’s the solitary rhythm of a good run or the methodical task of mowing the lawn, each element had its place, contributing to a fulfilling day. Even the absence of my friends, though initially disappointing, opened up space for reflection and uninterrupted productivity.
As I look forward to tomorrow’s run, I carry with me the lessons learned from today: the understanding of pace, the importance of adapting to changes, and the appreciation of the unexpected freedoms that come our way. These experiences, though seemingly small, are significant chapters in the story of personal growth and everyday resilience.
Living on a hillside in Tennessee comes with its unique set of challenges, especially when it comes to lawn maintenance. With the unpredictable weather patterns and the constant battle against the clock, managing our lawn can sometimes feel like a strategic game. My personal struggle with procrastination often plays a pivotal role in this ongoing saga, making the task of lawn mowing a significant aspect of my weekly routine.
Each week, I dedicate one to two hours to mowing our lawn, a crucial task to keep the grass from becoming an unruly jungle. However, like many, I sometimes find myself looking for any excuse to escape this chore, especially when the motivation isn’t there. Yesterday was a prime example where the allure of procrastination won out over the necessity of lawn care.
The weather here doesn’t make this any easier. Our Tennessee springs are notorious for their fickleness – one day, it’s pleasantly warm, and the next, temperatures plummet by 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Rain becomes an all-too-frequent visitor, complicating my mowing schedule. The result? An often too-long lawn that demands immediate attention, lest it become unmanageable.
My wife often cites the mantra “Eat that frog,” advocating for tackling the most daunting tasks early to free the rest of the day from their looming presence. She finds solace in systematically checking off items from her to-do list. This practice ensures productivity and peace of mind. Her approach is one of discipline and foresight, qualities I admire yet struggle to embody fully due to my procrastinatory nature.
I combat my tendency to procrastinate by making specific promises to myself, setting firm deadlines, and recognizing the flexibility—or lack thereof—of my tasks. While I may push my duties to the eleventh hour, I rarely fail to accomplish them. However, this method has flaws, especially when unforeseen circumstances, like our unpredictable weather, come into play. My recent bout of procrastination has left me facing a dauntingly overgrown lawn, a consequence I now regret.
Our perspectives on procrastination diverge significantly. My wife detests it, prioritizing eliminating unwelcome tasks as early as possible. Conversely, I see some value in delaying certain tasks, likening it to the interest paid on borrowed time. This philosophy, however, has its pitfalls, as I’ve learned the hard way with lawn mowing. The longer the grass grows, the more arduous the task becomes—a tangible representation of the cost of procrastination.
As I gaze upon the weather forecast, hoping for a break in the rain to tend to my lawn, I reflect on the importance of planning and adaptability. External factors, such as weather, sometimes remind me of the limits of control over my schedule. This recent experience has instilled a newfound resolve to tackle lawn mowing head-on, without delay, in the coming weeks.
Living on a hillside in Tennessee has taught me more than just about lawn care; it’s a lesson in time management, the pitfalls of procrastination, and the value of early action. As I look ahead, I’m reminded of the importance of embracing these challenges, knowing well that even the steepest of hills can be easily managed with a bit of foresight and discipline.
In my 20s, I always found the days we had to change our clocks for daylight saving time to be some of the most challenging days of the year. Some people said they liked the spring-forward or fall-back changes, but they were equally difficult for me. Unless I moved somewhere like Arizona, where they keep the time the same, I realized I’d have to deal with this uncomfortable shift twice a year, every year. I decided to shake things up and change my routine.
I’ve always been a night owl, but I forced myself to start my days early to get more done. Mondays are the only days I physically go to work, and I dread the commute, mainly because I drive a manual car. Traffic eats into my valuable time. Luckily, my office is only a 15-minute drive from home if I leave early enough to dodge the traffic jams, and my workday starts at 7 am. I decided to use the extra time I saved by working early on improving something in my life.
Then, we moved to Tennessee from Canada, and my routine faced a new challenge. Back in Canada, I’d run after work, but it’s way too hot in Tennessee, especially in the summer. Running in the extreme heat wasn’t appealing, but it still beat the alternative of running in the snow or ice for months. I had to tweak my schedule to fit the local weather patterns.
A survey by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine showed that about 63% of Americans would rather not deal with the time change, and 55% feel tired because of it (John Hopkins, 2023). I noticed in my early 20s that my productivity took a hit right after we changed the time, and my running pace slowed down on the days immediately following the time changes. This issue gets worse every year. It might be due to the time changes throwing off my body’s internal clock.
According to John Hopkin’s blog post, time changes also negatively impact our health. I am not going to discuss the impact in detail here, but if you have time, please read the website.
In response, I began shifting my schedule in my early 30s. This adjustment has worked, allowing me to maintain my natural rhythms despite the time changes. Instead of dreading these days, I’ve found ways to adapt and use them to my advantage. Changing my routine and adjusting to my new environment in Tennessee has helped me cope with the time change and improve my overall productivity and well-being.
From the moment I woke up, I knew something was off. My morning run, usually the first accomplishment of my day, was delayed, setting a domino effect in motion that threw my entire schedule into disarray. This hiccup directly resulted from my decision to burn the midnight oil, leading to an inevitable oversleeping and a disrupted day ahead. To attempt a semblance of normalcy, I considered halving my usual 10k run to a 5k, hoping to claw back some time. It’s a bummer, to say the least.
Reflecting on the cause of today’s scheduling mishap is crucial for me. I aim to understand what went wrong to avoid repeating the same errors. The changing seasons are a significant factor contributing to my delayed start and overall time mismanagement.
Recently, we’ve experienced a spell of warm, rainy days, making the initiation of my runs more challenging than usual. Motivation is complex when the weather acts as a deterrent. However, I recognize that this is but a temporary phase. Soon, the weather will settle, and early morning runs will become essential to beat the heat.
My delay in hitting the sack last night also played a pivotal role in today’s delayed start. In an unusual move, I opted out of my regular melatonin dose, thinking it unnecessary given the late hour and my level of fatigue. My rationale was that my body wouldn’t have ample time to process the supplement before my wake-up, potentially leaving me groggier than if I’d skipped it. While this decision seemed logical then, it didn’t sufficiently mitigate the effects of my late-night.
This experience has led me to a critical conclusion: maintaining a consistent sleep schedule is integral to the smooth flow of my day. No matter how minor they seem at the moment, Deviations can lead to a ripple effect, disrupting my routine and productivity. As I navigate through these seasonal adjustments and try to balance my health and productivity, today serves as a reminder of the delicate interplay between our plans and the realities we face. It’s a lesson in adaptability, self-awareness, and the constant pursuit of balance amidst life’s inevitable shifts.
