If you’re not a morning person, it can be rough to say the least.

Most days, you have to drag yourself out of bed and begrudgingly to the studio.

It doesn’t have to be that way.  So how can you actually begin your day feeling great and ready to work? The answer: developing the right morning routine.

To become happier, more creative, and excited to work, follow this artist-specific morning routine:

1. Start on a Positive Note

When you start your morning feeling happy, that positivity can carry on to the rest of your day into the studio. And, the best way to get on board this positivity train is by counting your accomplishments and acknowledging what has gone right.

Get a small notebook and take five minutes before rolling out of bed to jot down three things you are thankful for that day. Whether you celebrate a new success in your art business or appreciate the roof over your head, remember all of the good in your life.

The world may seem like it’s out to get you at times. But, when you take a step back and reflect on how much you have going for yourself, negativity will melt away and you can concentrate on creating your best art.

2. Eat Your Way to Better Art

It’s no secret that starting your day with a hearty breakfast helps fuel your brain power. While it’s tempting to grab a snack bar on your way out the door or fill up on a cup of coffee, this will only make you crash later on in the day. Your creativity will stop in its tracks, and nobody wants that.

So, make breakfast into a moment of peace before the busy day starts. Grab a fun coffee mug from the cupboard to brighten your day, like The Muse suggests in their morning routine, and practice mindfulness.

3. Get the Creative Juices Flowing

Another great option for your breakfast break is to start warming up your creativity for the rest of the day. How? Store some paper and pencils close by for doodling or crack open an adult coloring book. Also try out one of these seven fun exercises to improve your creative thinking like our founders. These activities are low-key and relaxing, but enough fun to jumpstart your creative juices.

4. Do Not Save the Best for Last

After you’ve given thanks, fueled up, and are ready to work, Fast Company recommends jumping right into your biggest task of the day. Why? Overcoming that mountain of a project, before you’ve had the chance to become tired and discouraged, will help the rest of your day look great by comparison.

Or, if not the biggest task, choose the one you are most excited for. Then you can transition right into your art without having to psych yourself up for the more dreary tasks of running an art business. Use that excitement to your advantage to get things done!

5. Stick to the List

In Fast Company’s article “The Morning Routines of the Most Successful People,” it’s revealed that the CEO of American Express, Kenneth Chenault, makes a list every night before leaving his office of the top three tasks he wants to accomplish the next day which he then uses to start his mornings.

This is a great idea because it keeps you focused and sets you in motion, all without having to fight a groggy morning brain to develop a plan for the day. Check out Artwork Archive’s Reminders feature, a wonderful way to keep your to do’s organized.

Now you can win your morning routine.

A bad start to the day can affect the quality of your work.  Don’t let your mornings get the best of you. Stick with a routine that will help increase your positivity, energy, creativity, focus, and more. You art business will thank you.

Feel great morning and night by checking out our health tips in “How to Stay Healthy as an Artist.”