From Stable to Strategy: Starting the Day Right

Meet Nutty (left) and Noddy (right) with a bed head today!  My day always starts letting these two little fellas out for the day from their cosy stable.  Coffee and some fresh air is always a good start to the day but what comes next?

Laying the Foundation for a Strong Day Ahead

Over years of coaching I’ve learned what works for me.  It’s not the 5am starts that some coaching gurus preach.  It’s not the pint of water when I wake up, the freezing shower or the 10-mile run.  None of that fits into my lifestyle.  

These are the ‘to do’s that do work.  Do I do them every day? – no – I have dogs, chickens, horses, children and a husband (not necessarily in that order) as well as a very successful and growing business to run.  Do I feel better when I am able to do these things – yes, 100% and my day runs much better.  If it all sounds a bit woo woo, try it and see! 

1. Maintain an attitude of gratitude.  Write 5 things you’re grateful for.  It will take your mind off the negatives in life and you’ll feel immediately better. Writing helps us process the thoughts, even if it’s on the back of a scrappy envelope.  It doesn’t matter. One of mine today – it’s raining – great – good for the plants and no need to water.  You get the idea.

2. Some educational reading about business.  Even if 10 minutes.  If you don’t like reading and don’t have time (usual excuses I hear) – you can use audio books and make your breakfast at the same time. 

Reading or listening to something business related opens your mind, tunes it in to possibilities and if you take just one thing from it and action it you’ll move your business forward.  Do that every day and you’ll transform your business.  It’s a gradual cumulative process.  

3. Time for 10 minutes of meditation?  No?  Then you need 30 minutes.  If you don’t have any time, you need meditation to calm the mind and help focus.  

Headspace is a brilliant app that has meditation, yoga work outs and all sorts of quick tutorials on topics such as sleeping better.  Whatever you need help with – anxiety, stress, calm, sleep – it’s all there waiting for you. 

4. Fit in some exercise.  You don’t need to spend long; some simple stretches will do while the kettle boils.  Exercise for me isn’t about weight loss; it may work for some but not me. Exercise for me is about reducing stress, increasing energy levels and sharpening my mind.  

I have my best creative ideas for my business when I’m exercising.  Mucking out a stable or walking the dogs is my exercise so you can combine it with your every day chores. No need to sweat it out in the gym as not many business owners realistically have time for that every day and consistency is key.

5. Plan your working day on paper – some coaches say you should plan the night before.  It doesn’t work for me but it might for you.  I like planning in the morning as I’m more focused at that time of day but you need time to do it. Whenever you do plan, and you should always plan if you want to be productive and less stressed, then list the urgent tasks that you just MUST do.  

Next list the important tasks and prioritise them with quick numbers.  Put time scales to them and work out what is realistic and achievable in your day given what’s already in your diary. 

Non-important/non-urgent tasks – delegate or eliminate them.  This is not where your focus should be as a business owner. Once the plan is complete get those urgent tasks done and out of the way – your day will then only get better.  Then work through the important tasks. 

This may all sound time consuming but it’s really not – you need 30-60 minutes but if that transforms the rest of your day and your business, why wouldn’t you?

Preparing Today for Tomorrow’s Success

Our purpose is to help you and your business succeed. We know that being a business owner is a lonely place! If you would like coaching, mentoring, or just someone to talk to please contact us at James Todd & Co.

Michelle has not only run and grown a business but has helped hundreds of business owners over the years and can help you too.  We also have an experienced team who can help you with business and financial planning.  Whatever you or your business needs; we’re here to help.