By Mandy Green
1 minute read
Mornings can set the tone for your entire day, especially in the world of higher education.
Many of us start by checking email right after we wake up in the morning. But this habit can lead to stress and feeling overwhelmed.
When you check your email right away, you might see urgent requests, problems, or a flood of tasks that need attention. All of a sudden you become anxious and feel like you’re already behind before you even start your day.
It sets a reactive tone, where you’re responding to others’ needs instead of focusing on your own priorities.
Here are 4 ideas for you to try this week to get your day off to a positive start:
Use a Real Alarm Clock: Don’t use your phone as an alarm. It’s too tempting to check emails when you wake up. An old-fashioned alarm clock can help you resist the urge.
Turn Off Notifications: Those buzzing notifications can pull you in. Turn them off to stay focused on your morning routine.
Set Email Times: Decide when you’ll check emails and include those times in your email signature. This lets others know when to expect replies.
Keep Your Phone Out of Sight: Until you’re ready to work, keep your phone out of reach. This helps you focus on more important tasks first.
By avoiding emails first thing in the morning, you give yourself the space to focus on what truly matters – advancing the mission of your institution and achieving your goals.
This proactive approach helps you start the day with clarity, aligning your actions with your purpose.
If you have questions about this approach I’d love to help! Email me at mandy@dantudor.com