Tina O’Conner: Routine Trumps Anxiety

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By Tina O’Conner

It is morning and not too many of us are excited about being awake. Especially now that it is quite chilly in the morning. Anxiety is a word synonymous with feeling worried, overwhelmed, fearful, etc.

Developing a morning routine is a healthy way to the upcoming day. Most of us wake up already thinking about what needs to be accomplished today. Sometimes those thoughts motivate us and sometimes they slow us down.

Having an established routine can help keep our thoughts positive and motivating. This process usually begins the night before. What am I wearing tomorrow, what am I making for dinner, am I bringing or purchasing lunch.

When we answer those questions we can have a clear mind to fall asleep easily. Develop a sleep routine. Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day (including weekends.) Do something calm before going to sleep. For those who have children, helping them answer these questions helps make the morning less stressful.

Once we are up and moving, asking ourselves the question, “what is the most important thing I want to accomplish today?” Some people find it helpful to read something positive and take a few minutes to focus on the message.

Others find that exercise, yoga or meditation in the morning keeps their mind calm and clear. Try to leave the house in plenty of time so you do not have to rush.

When you get to work, take your time organizing tasks for the day. Again, develop a routine. Do I answer voicemail or email first? What is the priority for today? How am I going to accomplish what’s important today?

When we rush into work and are on time for the meeting or conference call, anxiety is creating because we cannot focus on the task ahead that quickly. This tool increases productivity and gets us noticed by our supervisors.

And there are those who can rush in and immediately focus. I am not one of those people. I like to be at my office at least 45 minutes before my day begins to get organized. The therapist who shares an office unit with me is the opposite. She can get there on time and focus with little difficulty. I greatly admire that.

Take some time today to develop a morning routine and see how it reduces your stress, anxiety, fear, worry, etc. Remember it takes approximately three (3) weeks to create a habit. So, be kind and gentle with yourself.

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Tina O'ConnorTina L. O’Connor, MS, NCC is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has a private counseling practice in Parkesburg. Tina attended college in Phoenixville and West Chester. Tina and her husband Doug have three amazing adult stepchildren and two beautiful grandchildren. Tina can be reached at Experience Positive Therapy via telephone at (610) 857-8089 or email at exppostherapy1@verizon.net.
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Top photo credit: Je pense via photopin (license)

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