Great things are done by a series of small things

 
Quote by Vincent Van Gogh
(30 March 1853 – 29 July 1890)
Dutch post-Impressionist painter whose work had far-reaching influence on 20th-century art. His paintings include portraits, self-portraits, landscapes, still lifes, olive trees and cypresses, wheat fields and sunflowers. He was largely ignored by critics until after his early death in 1890. The only substantial exhibitions held during his lifetime were showcases in Paris and Brussels.
 

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Whether you’re an early morning or a late night person we all start our day at some point. What you do each morning is an indicator of how you approach your entire day. Did you ever think about it?
Great things are done by a series of small things. Little choices determine the life we live, the health we enjoy, and the work we create.
Our daily routines can make a huge difference to how healthy, happy and productive we are. I’m trying a very consistent routine since I started working on my own design studio. It gives me discipline and helps me focus on my goals.
Here are some things that I’ve found to be most effective for getting the most out of my morning.
Start with the question: “How I can be better today?”. I’m always trying to improve myself and my work, reading new books, learning new skills or a new language. I have a post-it on my computer with this quote and I’m always reading it before starting my work.
Eat a good breakfast. It’s the most important meal you have a day and have a massive impact on your productivity.
Do creative work when it feels best. Manage your energy, not your time. If you take a moment to think about it, you’ll probably realize that you are better at doing certain things at certain times. My creativity is highest in the morning, so that’s when I start drawing and designing something.
Sit up straight or stand up. You’ll find that you can breathe easier and more fully. Your brain will get more oxygen and you’ll be able to concentrate better.
You can use a pillow on your back. It prevents your back from rounding.
Leave your email alone for the first few hours of each day. Use the morning to do what’s most important.
Prepare the night before. I spend a few minutes each night organizing things I have to do tomorrow. It takes 5 minutes that night and saves 2 hours the next day.
Finish your day with the question: “What good have I done today?”. Write down the goals you achieved today.
I’d love to hear about your routine, too. Feel free to share your morning routine in the comments!