If you’re like me, you’ve probably made a resolution or two about becoming more disciplined. But let’s be real, it’s easier said than done.

The key is in how you start your day. Morning habits can make or break your discipline game.

And guess what? I’ve got a list of seven morning rituals that can set you up for a more disciplined year ahead. These aren’t quick fixes, but simple routines that can make a big difference over time.

Here are seven things you should start doing every morning if you want to become a more disciplined person next year.

1) Early to bed, early to rise

It’s a saying we’ve all heard, but how many of us actually implement it?

The cornerstone of discipline starts with regulating your sleep cycle. There’s a wealth of research that suggests waking up early can lead to increased productivity and better mental health.

But here’s the catch – you can’t just wake up early and expect miracles to happen. It’s about what you do with that extra time in the morning.

The first step towards becoming a more disciplined person is hitting the sack earlier and rising with the sun.

However, remember it’s not about torturing yourself. If you’re not a natural early bird, start slow. Set your alarm clock 15 minutes earlier each week until you reach your desired wake-up time.

Getting up early isn’t just about having more hours in the day. It’s about starting your day with intention, and setting the tone for a disciplined day ahead.

2) Set your intentions for the day

I can’t stress enough how much of a game changer this has been for me.

Each morning, before the hustle-bustle of the day begins, I take a few moments to myself. I make a cup of coffee and sit down with my journal.

This isn’t about creating a to-do list. It’s about setting my intentions for the day. What do I want to achieve? How do I want to feel? What’s my main focus?

This routine has been a powerful tool in helping me shape my day and focus on what truly matters. It allows me to clear my mind and prioritize my tasks effectively.

There have been countless mornings where I’ve felt overwhelmed with the tasks that lay ahead. But taking a few minutes to set my intentions has helped me approach the day with clarity and purpose.

Give it a try. It could be as simple as writing down one thing you want to achieve that day or even visualizing how you want the day to go.

You’ll be surprised at how this simple act can help you start your day with a sense of direction, making you feel more in control and disciplined.

3) Physical exercise to kickstart your day

Ever wonder why the most successful people swear by a morning workout? It’s not just about staying fit. Exercise releases endorphins, the feel-good hormones, which help in starting your day on a positive note.

Moreover, a study published in the British Journal of Health Psychology found that morning exercise improves attention, visual learning, and decision-making.

So, whether it’s a brisk walk, a quick run, yoga or hitting the gym, incorporating physical activity into your morning routine can give you an energy boost, enhance your mood and significantly improve your mental clarity.

Just like any other habit, start small and gradually increase the intensity of your workout. It’s not about sweating buckets but rather about waking up your body and getting your blood flowing.

4) Fuel your body right

As someone who used to skip breakfast regularly, I can tell you first-hand what a difference this change has made in my life.

Breakfast isn’t called the most important meal of the day for no reason. What you eat in the morning sets the tone for your energy levels and mood throughout the day.

Starting your day with a nutrient-rich breakfast can boost your metabolism, improve your concentration, and prevent you from overeating later in the day.

But here’s the thing – not all breakfasts are created equal. Sugary cereals or a doughnut might be tempting, but they cause a spike in your blood sugar levels, leading to an energy crash later in the day.

Instead, opt for a balanced meal with a good mix of protein, complex carbs and healthy fats. Foods like eggs, whole grain bread, avocados, or a smoothie packed with greens and fruits are great choices.

Trust me when I say that making time for a healthy breakfast can be a game-changer in your journey towards discipline. It’s about nourishing your body right from the get-go and setting yourself up for success.

5) Embrace mindfulness

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve found myself caught up in the whirlwind of the day, forgetting to simply breathe and be present.

Incorporating mindfulness into my morning routine has been a profound shift. I started with just five minutes of meditation each day. Just five minutes to sit in silence, focus on my breath, and clear my mind.

This daily practice has brought me a sense of peace and clarity that’s hard to overstate. It has helped me cultivate an ability to handle stress better, be more focused and, most importantly, appreciate the here and now.

Mindfulness doesn’t have to be complicated. It can be as simple as focusing on your breath, doing a body scan, or repeating a positive affirmation.

This small act of self-care each morning can greatly contribute to your overall sense of discipline. It’s about starting your day with calm and intention, setting a positive tone for the rest of the day.

6) Tidy up your space

We’ve all heard the saying, “A cluttered space equals a cluttered mind.” And there’s more truth to it than you might think.

Research shows that an organized environment can significantly impact our productivity, mood, and even our sleep.

So, make it a habit to tidy up your space each morning. It could be as simple as making your bed, clearing your desk, or organizing your kitchen counter.

This small act of tidying not only physically declutters your space, but it also brings a sense of order and tranquility to your mind.

Plus, maintaining a clean environment reinforces discipline as it requires consistent effort. It’s one of those small wins that can set a positive tone for the rest of the day and make you feel accomplished right from the start.

7) Be consistent

The most important thing you need to know about becoming more disciplined is this: consistency is key.

All the morning routines in the world won’t make a difference if you don’t stick to them. Whether it’s waking up early, exercising, or practicing mindfulness, the real power lies in doing these things consistently.

It might seem challenging at first, but remember, discipline is like a muscle. The more you work on it, the stronger it becomes.

Make a commitment to yourself. Follow these morning routines every day, not just when you feel like it. It’s this daily repetition that will help you cultivate discipline and set you up for success in the long run.