9 Daily Rituals to Set Yourself Up for Career Success

Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared on FlexJobs.com.

Do you feel like your workday is always in catch-up mode? Does it seem like you spend your days hustling, and yet your to-do list doesn’t get any shorter?

Logistically, you know that other people have the same tasks on their to-do lists, but somehow, they seem to handle them without appearing overwhelmed. So, what’s their secret?

Would it surprise you that it might not be the newest digital planner or time management app?

It turns out that the secret isn’t a secret after all. Many professionals have discovered that simply creating and following daily rituals can boost career success.

Consider three areas where you can build in some simple daily habits and create healthier routines to build long-term success.

Daily Rituals for Your Physical Health

In our overscheduled day-to-day lives, the first thing to get pushed off the to-do list is often the time for our physical health.

However, creating a daily routine that prioritizes time to care for and fuel your body might be one of the most beneficial habits you can make for your career.

1. Get Enough Sleep

A successful day actually begins the night before. Getting enough sleep every night is essential to being productive and focused during the day.

Many successful people have a bedtime routine that helps them wind down and get ready for sleep.

2. Include Movement

Exercise is not only good for your physical health, but it can also improve your mental clarity and focus.

Daily movement can help you feel energized and motivated to take on the challenges of your career. And you don’t have to get an entire sweat session in.

Simply incorporating regular movement throughout the day can give you the energy you need to focus on your tasks.

3. Focus On Nutrition

When we start running behind, we often feel like we don’t have time to eat and end up grabbing unhealthy food on the go.

However, nutrition plays a vital role in supporting brain function, affecting everything from our ability to comprehend and answer questions to our productivity on the job.

Schedule time to eat healthier meals and ensure that you have nutritious snacks on hand for times you’re on the go.

Daily Rituals for Your Mental Health

From deadlines and meetings to office politics and endless email chains, it’s easy to let work consume your life.

However, studies have shown that employees who take time to care for their mental health are more productive, creative, and engaged in their work.

As a result, taking steps to reduce stress and promote wellness can be one of the most important things you can do for your career.

1. Develop a Morning Routine

Starting your day off with a set routine can help you feel more prepared and motivated to take on the day.

Many successful people have specific rituals they perform every morning, such as journaling, reading, or exercising. If you work remotely, this is especially crucial to ensure that you help your brain switch into work mode.

Find what works for you and stick to it, as a morning routine can set the tone for your entire day.

2. Prioritize Time for Yourself

Make sure to schedule some time each day for yourself, even if it’s just a short break. This time can be used for relaxation or anything else that helps you recharge.

Perhaps you’re an avid reader. Block out time to read before bed, rather than watch TV, if it will help you feel more rejuvenated.

Take some time for yoga or meditation to help you feel calm if your day is chaotic. Whatever enables you to feel rejuvenated, schedule some time for that daily.

3. Get Outside More

If your job keeps you stuck inside, it might be time to step away from your computer screen and get some fresh air.

Taking a break to go outside, even if it’s just for a few minutes, can help clear your mind and give you a new perspective.

And if you’re lucky enough to have access to green space, spending time in nature has been shown to improve moods and decrease stress levels.

So, take a walk around the block or sit on your front porch for a bit each day. You may find that you come back feeling refreshed and ready to tackle your day with renewed energy.

Daily Rituals for Your Career Health

Getting caught up in the daily grind and losing sight of your long-term goals can be easy.

However, it’s important to create intentional habits supporting your long-term career goals.

1. Create a To-Do List

One of the best ways to get organized and achieve your career goals is to create a daily to-do list.

Set aside some time each day to review your goals and see what you need to do to achieve them. This list should include both big and small tasks you need to accomplish.

As you complete each task, check it off your list so you can see your progress. Daily and weekly focus can help you stay on track and progress toward your long-term career goals.

2. Network Every Day

It’s essential to nurture your professional relationships. Make an effort to reach out to someone in your network daily, whether through a phone call, email, or social media.

Staying in touch with your contacts will help you build strong relationships that can benefit your career.

3. Build a Career Development Routine

Take some time each day to learn something new. This can be reading industry news, listening to a podcast, or taking an online course.

Learning further information will help you keep up with the latest trends and developments in your field.

When you’re pressed for time, consider listening to a podcast that you can absorb during your commute or daily workouts.

Ending Your Day With Reflection

Successful people often end their day by taking some time to reflect on what they’ve accomplished and where they struggled.

This helps set them up for a positive mindset going into the next day.