1. Reduce distraction,TV, phones, calls, emails.
Routinely listening to podcasts and light music in the morning is fine, but draw the line at immersing yourself in social media, checking emails and watching the news. They'll reduce your energy and concentration and the distraction usually results in a more chaotic morning.
2. Prep the night before.
This calls for clothes, packed lunches and bags. Get everything ready. Pack your keys, laptop, school books for the kids etc the night before. This way you'll have a calmer morning as opposed to scrambling around looking for misplaced items.
3. Write down your to do list
By doing this the night before - ideally before bed, you'll be mentally equipped for the day ahead. Things will be clearer, leading to a more productive morning and day.
4. Go to bed at the same time the night before.
Going to bed the same time every evening is one of the best ways to regulate your body clock. This makes it easier to get up and out of bed in the morning. Studies have proven that a strict sleep schedule can contribute to a fulfilling morning.
5. Wake up before the kids
Waking up about an hour earlier than your brood means you'll have ample time to get dressed, have a coffee and even drop in some meditation or exercise. It means that you'll only have the kids to tackle and your energy will be grounded, resulting in a less stressful morning.
6. Organise the morning into time capsules
An example: If you have to leave the house by 9am, ensure that everyone is dressed and downstairs for breakfast by 8am. Shoes and coats are being put on at 8:45am. You'll be able to get out of the house with grace and ease - which is something we all wish for.