Courtney Carver, a proponent of intentional living, advocates for a morning routine that prioritizes self-care and creativity. Inspired by Julia Cameron's "morning pages" from her 1992 classic, The Artist's Way, Carver's approach is not about documenting projects or keeping records. Instead, she emphasizes the importance of a "much-needed brain dump" to start the day with a clear mind.
Carver's philosophy challenges the common habit of reaching for phones first thing in the morning. She suggests beginning the day with activities that bring joy and peace, such as placing your hands on your heart before reaching for your phone. This simple change can lead to a more fulfilling day, allowing individuals to fill their cups with positive energy rather than depleting it.
In 2006, Carver initiated her own morning routine by waking merely five minutes earlier to incorporate some yoga into her day. Over time, she gradually extended her routine, adding just one minute each week until she achieved a satisfying 30-minute ritual. Her current practice includes 20 minutes of meditation followed by writing until she fills three pages with whatever thoughts occupy her mind. This practice helps her prioritize self-care needs, setting a tone that extends throughout the day.
"This isn't record-keeping or journaling for a new project, but a much-needed brain dump," Carver explains.
The flexibility of Carver's approach allows for personalization and adaptation. She acknowledges that there are no "magic ingredients" for a morning routine, encouraging people to start with something that genuinely interests or delights them. This could be as simple as five minutes of meditation or journaling, with the option to gradually increase the duration as one's needs evolve.
"There are no magic ingredients for a morning routine. Start the day with something that interests or delights you," Carver advises.
Carver also highlights the importance of adapting routines to fit different seasons of life. She tailors her routine based on the time of year and her current circumstances, ensuring it remains relevant and effective.
"I change my routine depending on the time of year and what’s going on in my life," says Carver.
The primary goal of Carver's morning ritual is to implement self-prioritization. By creating such a routine, individuals can focus on their well-being before attending to external demands.
"By creating a morning ritual or routine, you put yourself first," Carver emphasizes.
Carver's method also suggests experimenting with keeping phones in sleep mode until an hour or two after waking up. This delay can help foster a calmer start to the day, free from the immediate pressures of digital engagement.
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