The Power of Daily Routines and Habits for Men

In the pursuit of personal mastery and excellence, there are several pillars that can significantly impact your life. Today, we're going to delve into one of these pillars, which is often underestimated but holds immense power: Daily Routines and Habits of Excellence.

## The AM/PM Bookends

When it comes to crafting a masterpiece day, it's wise to start with a powerful morning routine. However, if you want to pursue excellence consistently, finishing your day with an evening routine is even wiser. This concept is beautifully coined as the "AM/PM Bookends."

While many individuals tend to emphasize their morning routines, it's crucial to recognize that world-class athletes, Olympians, and superstars focus on their evening routines for a good reason. Why, you might ask? Because the way you finish your day profoundly impacts how you'll start the next one.

## The Masterpiece Day Worksheet

Your evening routine, often called the "PM Shut down," is a vital tool for self-improvement. During this time, you have the opportunity to review your day, your accomplishments, and areas that "need work."

"Needs Work" is a concept worth embracing. It's a way to assess where you might have fallen short without judgment, blame, or complaining. It involves looking at yourself in a powerful, neutral, and empathetic way. You evaluate what you wanted or intended to happen and what actually occurred (the facts), and identify what needs improvement. It might be a need for more focus, discipline, motivation, or any qualities that can enhance your chances of success.

During your evening routine, you set up time blocks for the next day and define your number one target. Take a moment to anchor and celebrate your wins, no matter how small they may seem.

## The AM Routine

As you transition to the morning, it's essential to establish an AM Routine that aligns with your goals and values. This routine typically includes elements such as meditation, journaling, reading, Win Hof Breathing, prayer (if that resonates with you), making your bed, brushing your teeth, hitting the gym, and more. The primary objective is to create a consistent and achievable morning routine.

### Making Your Bed: A Symbol of Excellence

Let's consider the simple act of making your bed to emphasize the importance of small actions in daily routines. In his book, "Make Your Bed," Admiral McRaven shares a powerful story from his days in SEAL training. Each morning, an instructor meticulously inspected how he made his bed. Were the corners neatly tucked? Was the grey blanket folded in a precise triangle? Was the pillow centered at the top of the bed? This attention to detail set the standard for excellence.

McRaven's message is clear: "Making your bed will also reinforce the fact that little things in life matter. If you can't do the little things right, you will never do the big things right." Making your bed every morning can serve as a daily reminder of your commitment to excellence and discipline.

In conclusion, the power of daily routines and habits of excellence should not be underestimated. By implementing the AM/PM Bookends, mastering the Masterpiece Day Worksheet, and adhering to a consistent AM Routine, you can pave the way for personal growth, success, and a life filled with powerful moments. So, as you embark on your journey towards greatness, remember to make your bed - for it's in the little things that the seeds of excellence are sown.