5 Effective Morning Routines for Creative People

If my fifties have taught me anything, it’s that creativity thrives on rhythm. I used to think that inspiration needed to be accompanied by some chaos. But now, I know that creativity comes the most reliably when I create space for it.

Regardless of the projects I am working on, the following five simple routines help me to stay grounded, focused, and open to inspiration.

1. 3-5 Minutes of Silence (at least)

   
   

I take some quiet time for myself before starting the day. This time can be spent in meditation, a cup of tea, in the bath, or anywhere as long as it is quiet.

I take a walk with the dog, just me and her walking with the ground crunching under our feet. Silence is like a reset. It clears some of the noise and gives creativity some room to stretch. I recommend that you give it a try.

2. Be Selective

   
   

I am very protective of my early morning mind space these days.

No doom scrolling. No inbox. No news alerts.

I have my phone on bedtime mode from 10pm-11:45am , (places everything in a black and white, sends calls to voicemail, and no audio)

Instead, I pick things like:

a morning music playlist

a book

a motivational quote

3. Perform a 10-Minute Mind Dump (My Productivity Lifesaver)

   
   

If my mind wanders, know it's time for a brain dump. All you need is a piece of paper, a timer, and then just word-vomit onto the page. No stopping to think, no editing. A clear mind will allow for unrestricted writing.

4. Move Your Body (Again, Gently!)

   
   

My ideas often come to mind while I do a little bit of stretching or walking around. After everyone is out of the house or settled in to their daily routine. I'll go for a longer walk alone. I usually find my thoughts wandering to the project I am currently working on.

You could try:

Stretching,

Dancing in the kitchen while your coffee is brewing,

A yoga session,

Movement is the key to opening up your thoughts.

5. Choose Exactly One Creative Intention

Just one.

A long time ago, in my twenties, I used to work on several goals at the same time without finishing. Now that I am in my fifties, I am more focused and do less. I am able to complete my projects sucessfully and more importantly, on time. Pick one creative action that matters today. What could make today even better?

• Write 300 words. It could be 301 or 299.

  
  

• Edit one scene. It could be a scene for a movie or play, or just a portion of text, but take the time to edit something.

  
  

• Sketch tomorrow’s layout. Make a rough plan or plan the entire day.

  It makes for a nice mindfulness activity (brain dump) and helps unclutter your mind before sleep.

  
  

• Take three product photos. It could apply to a product you are passionate about, food, a book. Just three photos.

  
  

Each of these are quick and action-based suggestions aimed for small wins that build momentum and confidence, to apply to whatever your bigger goals are.

Final Thoughts.

Most people think creativity is a fluid or chaotic thing. In reality, rituals act as the anchor for inspiration to arrive, and when the day starts with these small intentional moments, it fosters that creativity to show up.

You and your creativity deserve a soft, steady landing every morning.