Developing Daily Discipline
I live in Bali, Indonesia. It's one of the most beautiful places in the world. It's my sacred place where I thrive and feel at my best. I'm currently building my business. Unfortunately, due to the coronavirus, I lost my job. Now I have the opportunity to step into the career of my dreams. In doing so, I have implemented daily habits to keep me on track.
A daily routine sets the standard for the day and is a critical factor in helping me stay focused. Without an implemented discipline, I quickly become distracted and lose track of my goals.
The best way to achieve discipline and create habits is to start small and take baby steps, understanding it is a process. Routine helps build my self-confidence, keeps me healthy in my mind and body, and gives me the structure to create the life and vision I want to live.
My morning routine consists of waking up at 5:00 am; yes, I'm an early riser and morning person. I begin each morning by writing in my gratitude journal, which is filled with what I'm grateful for, and any dreams I can remember from the night before. I then make my bed, which might sound like a small achievement, but it helps me feel organized and prepared for the day ahead.
Each morning I also have my yoga & meditation practice. Yoga helps me get into a flow by moving and stretching my body after my night's rest. It also helps activate my brain functioning and internal system and sets the tone and intention for the day. After about 40 minutes of asanas poses, I sit and do a silent meditation for 20 minutes. By quieting my busy mind, I gain clarity and feel more energized and less stressed.
Now it's time to watch the sunrise, one of my favorite morning routines. Next, I take my dog for a walk and enjoy mother earth's natural sounds and beauty. It gives me a sense of connectedness and inner peace, for which I'm genuinely grateful.
Once I get back from my walk, I plan my day, making a list of the top three goals. If I don't do this, I get overwhelmed and end up in a procrastination spiral. However, I stay focused, accomplish more, and have a productive day by keeping myself on task.
Next comes my shower, in which I have a visualization practice. I imagine light pouring from the top of my head down into my body. Anything is stagnating washes away into the drain. It may sound funny, but I also enjoy engaging in some movement and dancing around in the shower as I listen to some tunes, shaking off any excess energy. Lastly, to invoke my system and wake up, I will turn on the cold water for the last 30 seconds, helping in a natural burst of energy.
My morning then moves on to my Ayurvedic practice after brushing my teeth. Next, I do oil pull to help kill any excess bacteria and neti pot for my nasal passage to help me breathe and flush out irritants. As I look in the mirror, I repeat a morning affirmation that can change daily. Lastly, I take a shot of apple cider vinegar and jamu made of turmeric, ginger, and curcumin.
After feeling fresh, clean, and invigorated, I make my coffee and enter creation mode. Ready, set, go! I find mornings are also my best times to write, as I'm writing a book and have my weekly blog. I even close some loops by taking care of my emails and checking my messages.
I integrate daily intermediate fasting into my diet, meaning I only eat between 12 pm and 8 pm. I eat mostly pescatarian and plant-based, but if my body craves something, I listen. Food is the fuel to your body and mind, and being conscious about your eating habits is vital.
Throughout the rest of my day, I'm in my masculine energy of working, writing, and building my business plan. I tend to end around sunset, approximately 6 pm, where I either go down to the beach to have a coconut or meet up with my partner to have dinner, switching into my feminine energy. Keeping a balance between my work and play is extremely important to me.
During the evening, I love to wind down around 8 pm with a cup of tea, engage in a new book, listen to a podcast, or learn something new. Then, finally, I get into bed at around 9 pm, no later than 10 pm. Sleep is crucial, and not getting enough can affect your health and productivity the following morning: lights out, sweet dreams, and goodnight.
My routine continues to help me stay on track during the week, Monday through Friday, to accomplish the essential things I'm inspired to create. On the weekends, I allow myself the freedom of choice and tap into my adventurous spirit by playing golf, heading to the beach, drinking wine, surfing, and just being joyful. Not to say I don't incorporate any joy during the week because I do. I believe it's all about finding a balance between self-love and self-care.
The greatest lesson is that nothing changes overnight, and learning, practice, and curiosity work best. We all have to start somewhere. And remember, we all have our off days, and it's ok to fall off track. Be messy, and learn what works best for you. Every day is an opportunity to try again.