Get Back on Track: 5 Evening Habits to Wake Up Focused, Recharged, and in Control

The Struggle of Daily Life

Robbins begins by acknowledging the exhaustion many of us feel at the end of a long day filled with responsibilities, work demands, and constant notifications from our devices. She relates to her audience, sharing her own experiences of feeling drained and overwhelmed. The modern world, with its incessant demands, can leave us feeling like we have nothing left to give by the time evening rolls around. This exhaustion often leads to a cycle of procrastination and poor decision-making, particularly when it comes to our evening routines.

Understanding Decision Fatigue

A significant part of the discussion revolves around the concept of decision fatigue. Robbins explains that throughout the day, we make thousands of decisions, which can lead to mental exhaustion. By the time we reach the evening, our ability to make thoughtful choices diminishes, resulting in impulsive behaviors like mindlessly scrolling through social media or binge-watching TV shows. Robbins cites research indicating that the average person makes over 35,000 decisions daily, which can leave us feeling mentally drained by the end of the day.

The Importance of an Evening Routine

Recognizing the impact of decision fatigue, Robbins introduces a simple five-step evening routine designed to help listeners reclaim their evenings and set themselves up for success the following day. She emphasizes that this routine is not about productivity but rather about self-care and creating a sense of calm and control in our lives.

Step One: Pick Your Bedtime

The first step in Robbins's evening routine is to choose a specific bedtime. She stresses the importance of being intentional about when you go to bed, as this sets the foundation for the entire evening. Robbins suggests calculating your bedtime based on when you need to wake up, factoring in the time it takes to fall asleep. For example, if you want to wake up at 6:00 a.m. and aim for eight hours of sleep, you should plan to be in bed by 9:00 p.m. This proactive approach helps eliminate the guesswork and decision-making that often leads to late nights.

Step Two: Clean Up Today's Mess

The second step involves tidying up your environment to create a fresh start for the next day. Robbins likens this to flushing a toilet after use; you wouldn't leave a mess for tomorrow. By taking just a few minutes to clean up, whether it's doing the dishes or organizing your space, you set the stage for a more peaceful morning. A clean environment can significantly reduce stress and help you feel more in control as you begin your day.

Step Three: Make Tomorrow Easier

In the third step, Robbins encourages listeners to prepare for the next day by making small adjustments that will simplify their morning routine. This could involve laying out workout clothes, prepping breakfast, or organizing work materials. By taking these actions the night before, you reduce the number of decisions you need to make in the morning, allowing for a smoother start to your day.

Step Four: Take Five Minutes for Yourself

The fourth step is about carving out time for self-care. Robbins emphasizes the importance of dedicating at least five minutes to yourself each evening. This could involve activities like reading, meditating, or simply reflecting on the day. By prioritizing this time, you signal to yourself that you matter and deserve to unwind after a long day. This practice not only helps you relax but also fosters a sense of gratitude and mindfulness.

Step Five: Tuck Your Phone In

Finally, Robbins addresses the impact of technology on our evening routines. She advises listeners to "tuck their phone in" before tucking themselves in for the night. This means putting your phone away in another room, such as the bathroom, to avoid the temptation of scrolling or checking notifications before bed. Robbins highlights the importance of creating boundaries with technology, especially when it comes to sleep. By doing so, you can improve your sleep quality and wake up feeling more refreshed.