My Ideal Remote Work Morning Routine (and What I Actually Stick To)
A strong morning routine sets the tone for the rest of the day — in theory. Here’s what my ideal remote work morning looks like... and what actually happens most days.
The Ideal Routine
Wake up without checking my phone
Stretch for 5 minutes and sip coffee
Journaling and reviewing today’s focus
Tidy workspace and open the blinds
Start a deep work session with ambient music
Gear that helps:
☕️ My go-to aeropress coffee setup [linked in Toolkit]
📓 A minimal productivity journal [linked in Toolkit]
🎧 Noise-canceling Sennheiser Momentum 4 headphones [linked]
💡 Adjustable LED desk light for warm ambient tone [linked]
The Real Routine (Most Days)
Wake up, check phone “just for a sec”
Spill some coffee while speed-cleaning my desk
Open my laptop and dive into yesterday’s tabs
Realize I forgot my headphones and get distracted
It’s not perfect. But it still works more often than not.
What Keeps Me Grounded
Even on off days, these 3 anchors get me into the zone:
Setting the stage first – I unpack my laptop stand, mouse, and headphones before logging in (even in a hotel or café)
Using audio cues – I play ambient music or put on headphones to signal “focus time”
Choosing one key priority – I write it down, even if I don’t write anything else that day
What I Use (Every Day)
Sennheiser Momentum 4 Headphones – block noise, boost deep work
Logitech MX Anywhere 3 Mouse – fast, portable, and satisfying to use
LED Desk Light – timer, adjustable warmth, ideal for early or late sessions
Cable Organizer Pouch – keeps my essentials together when I travel
Reusable Coffee Tumbler – double-insulated, no spills
You can find them all in my Remote Work Toolkit — the small gear that makes a big difference when routines get messy.
Final Word
No morning routine is perfect. But starting with just one intentional step can reset your momentum. For me, it’s always setting up my space.
Build the habit, not the hustle.
— Stack & Flow
