It’s very important to “bookend” your day. In the morning you want to set the tone for how you are going to approach this blank slate in front of you. Rather than waking up with a shrill alarm clock, get one of the new “Zen” clocks that wake you up gradually with a gentle chime, or one of the new lights that go on gradually from dim to bright. Then, before you get out of bed, read a little quote or saying to keep in mind throughout the day. There are many books that have just a page for the day, or calendars you can follow throughout the year.

Then before you get into the daily hurries, take a few moments in silence to digest what you’ve read and prepare yourself for the infinite possibilities ahead!

Before bedtime, find some time for silence again. Give thanks for the day and relax your mind and body to prepare for a good night’s sleep.

Mornings are generally hectic getting kids off to school and ready for work, so by the time you sit down at your desk, you’re ready for another interlude again. I write a weekday e-message called “Wisdom News.” It is absolutely free, and we don’t share our list with anyone. Anyone can subscribe through my site, http://www.coffeytalk.com/. It’s great to click on the e-mail and get a great little quote to start off the work day. We have a different subject each week, and past topics have included joy, friendship, connection, humor, creativity and simplicity.

When driving around, chauffeuring kids, running errands, etc., here’s something to remember: whenever you come to a red light, think of it as your signal to “Relax Every Day.” Take that moment to check in with your muscles: how tense are you? Take a deep breath. “Read Every Day.” Remember the quote you read this morning or the e-mail you got at work. And “Renew Every Day.” Have you spent time in silence? Is your mind clear? Remember what is REALLY important and give thanks for the reminder.

When the kids aren’t in the car, turn off the radio. You don’t need constant chatter – you need more quiet! These may be the only few moments you get during the day when someone isn’t asking you to do something! Use this time to collect calm – it’s a respite.