I went on a great run this morning and when I arrived back at our house it was still dark outside.  I love my mornings! That feeling of getting so much accomplished before the sun comes up makes me feel unstoppable.  For some people, the thought of early mornings makes them cringe, but for me, it’s my source of fuel and inspiration for the day ahead.

My morning routine consists of meditation, prayer and Bible study, light cleaning of whatever disasters happened from the day before with 2 dogs and 2 toddlers, my workout (currently 80 Day Obsession with Autumn Calabrese), and then getting the coffee started  while drinking some hot water with lemon.  Then it’s off to get myself and the girls dressed and out the door for our day.   I know it may seem like a lot to some people, but for me, this morning practice sets me up for a positive, productive, and values-based day. 

Here’s why the darkness routine is so important.  Once my girls are up and the work emails start flowing, much of my day becomes problem solving and influenced by the needs of others.  While my mission in life is to serve people, if I don’t put on my own oxygen mask first, I can’t be at my best for others so this routine is a must.  The morning is my time to set my mind and body up powerfully for the day ahead so that I can give my best to the world.

Here’s the great news:  this is can be your time too. The victory happens before anyone else wakes up.  It’s what happens when no one is looking.

Let me ask you this: What are you doing when no one is looking?  Are you combing over social media? Eating food that doesn’t fuel your soul? Participating in unhealthy habits?

Or……….. are you doing everything possible to grow, love, and thrive?

What you do in the dark is the time that is most under your control.  It’s the place where secrets can be hidden or dreams can be made……which one will you choose?  I love the John Wooden quote that says, “the true test of a person’s character is what they do when no one is watching.” Your responsibility is to live out your values in the dark.  To work relentlessly when others are sleeping and prepare yourself physically and mentally to live the day ahead at 100%.   

What can you do in the dark that will allow your light to shine?  Write down 3 things that you can start doing today and then go do it.  The Undefeated Heart Life is waiting.