We’ve all heard it before- make your bed in the morning. Now, you might be asking “What difference does it make?” But what if I told you that making your bed in the morning could actually set the tone for a more productive day?
There’s something surprisingly powerful about that small, seemingly insignificant act. So, if you’re reading this from a messy bed or an unmade one, don’t worry- you’re not alone. But by the end of this blog, you might just feel inspired to make that bed!
Truth is, there is a lot of power in small wins...
In his popular commencement speech at the University of Texas, Admiral William H. McRaven stated, “If you want to change the world, start off by making your bed.” He explained that accomplishing this small task first thing in the morning gives you a sense of pride and
sets a positive tone for the rest of the day. It’s your first “win” and, as he puts it, “If by chance you have a miserable day, you will come home to a bed that is made. That you made.” The idea is that one small victory can lead to another, creating a snowball effect of productivity.
It might sound trivial, but studies support this concept. A study by Charles Duhigg, the author of The Power of Habit, shows that making your bed can become a “keystone habit.”
Keystone habits are small changes or habits that people introduce into their routines that unintentionally carry over into other aspects of their lives. By starting your day with a small, manageable task like making your bed, you’re more likely to develop other good habits like working out, eating healthier, or maintaining a more organised workspace.
Psychologists suggest that making your bed creates a domino effect in your mind...
When you start the day with a task completed, it boosts your mood, reduces stress, and gives you a feeling of control. You’ve already ticked something off your list before you’ve even had your morning coffee!
Now, believe me, I get it. Not everyone is a morning person.
But here’s a tip: keep it simple. You don’t need hospital corners or military precision. Just pull up the duvet, straighten the pillows, and give yourself a pat on the back.
If it helps, think of making your bed as a gift to yourself. You’re creating a tidy, welcoming space that you’ll appreciate when you come back after a long day. You’re setting a tone of calmness and control before the world even has a chance to throw its daily curveballs at you.
So, boys and girls, making your bed isn’t just a chore-
it’s a mindset. It’s a simple habit with surprising benefits, and who knows? Maybe by making your bed, you’ll be making more room for success, happiness, and a whole lot more productivity in your life.
So, go on, give it a try tomorrow morning. It might just be the start of something bigger.
Staff Training is a South African soft skills training provider with more than 80 workshops on offer.
Email us at
info@StaffTraining.co.za for more info or give us a call at 0861 996 660
