Getting Back into routine
Morning Routine: Starting the Day Intentionally
I believe a good morning routine is the cornerstone of a productive day. When I skip it, I notice I feel sluggish and less motivated. Even small, intentional morning habits can set the tone for your whole day.
Here’s my current morning routine:
Fajr – Starting with prayer helps me begin with intention rather than rushing.
Dhikr – A few minutes of remembrance brings calm and focus.
Qur’an – Even a short recitation or listening to a translation shifts my mindset positively.
Pilates / gentle movement – Light movement wakes my body and supports my energy levels.
Breakfast – Something simple and nourishing to fuel the morning.
Get ready for the day – Washing, getting dressed, and feeling put together helps me feel mentally ready.
Plan the day – I look at what actually needs doing and set realistic expectations.
Tip: My goal isn’t a perfect morning routine—it’s a peaceful and intentional one.
Evening Routine: Winding Down and Resetting
After a busy day, an evening routine helps me relax, focus, and sleep better. Here’s what I do:
Clean and tidy (with an audiobook or podcast) – Resetting the space helps reset the mind.
Shower & refresh – A physical reset after the day.
Isha – Ending the day with prayer brings closure and calm.
10 minutes of journaling & gratitude – Reflecting and focusing on what I’m grateful for helps me sleep more peacefully.
Work time – Quiet, focused time when the house is calm (writing, reading, learning).
Bed – Rest is part of productivity—not something to feel guilty about.
Tip: A gentle evening routine makes the next morning feel lighter.
Environment & Space
Our surroundings have a huge impact on how we feel and how productive we can be.
At home, I try to keep the energy positive: a tidy space, open windows, and sometimes candles or incense. The way we communicate with family and treat our environment also matters—a calm, loving tone makes a big difference in how we feel.
Your environment also includes people. Surrounding yourself with supportive, kind, and like-minded friends helps you grow and stay motivated.
When it comes to work, finding a place that inspires you makes writing or creating feel easier—whether that’s a café, park, or your garden.
Tip: Even small changes, like opening windows or lighting a candle, can lift your energy.
Self-Care & Recharge
Self-care is essential to stay productive and motivated. For me, this includes:
Outdoors & movement – Walks, fresh air, and gentle exercise reset the mind.
Rest & downtime – Naps or quiet breaks help recharge.
Books, audiobooks, podcasts – These provide inspiration, knowledge, and motivation.
Even 10 minutes outside or 10 minutes reading can reset your mind and boost creativity. I may not have time for books every day, but I fit in audiobooks or podcasts while cooking or cleaning. I focus on topics that inspire me—parenting, homeschooling, Islamic lectures, writing, publishing, and blogging.
Getting outdoors, even for a short walk, always makes me feel calmer and more productive. After a walk, even in the rain or cold, coming back to a warm shower and a hot drink feels amazing. If you drive everywhere, try walking or using public transport when possible—it’s a small way to stay active and clear your mind.
Conclusion
Routines are powerful—they help with productivity, motivation, and spiritual well-being. You don’t need to overhaul your whole day at once. Start small:
Pick one morning habit to try this week.
Add one evening habit.
Choose one way to improve your environment or mind.
Even small steps can make a big difference. Try it this week and see how your days feel calmer, more intentional, and more productive.
