If you're looking for a way to slow down, find peace, and live with a sense of purpose each day, this morning routine might be exactly what you need.

In a world that pushes us to constantly 'do,' this practice invites you to simply 'be'—to anchor yourself in gratitude, release what’s weighing you down, and focus intentionally on what matters today.

It’s a simple routine with a profound impact, helping you experience the fullness of life with Christ, one moment at a time.

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Every morning, I begin with intention, simplicity, and ease.

Hurry is the enemy of growth and keeps us trapped in a "DO" mentality. My desire is to always live from a place of "BE."

One of the ways I anchor myself in "BE" is through my morning journaling routine.

Journaling helps you stop, be still, and be present.

Here’s my simple 3x3 "BE" journal routine...

I write down 3 things in 3 key areas:

1. GRATEFUL

I note 3 things I’m grateful for.

Gratitude is powerful. It grounds you in peace, joy, and the goodness around you. What I love about gratitude is that you can't be worried and grateful at the same time. It reminds you that life is good—it's all about what we choose to focus on.

Examples:

1. I'm grateful for my wife

2. I'm grateful to be home full time

3. I'm grateful for influence

2. SURRENDER

Next, I write down 3 things I need to let go of.

Most mornings, I wake up with things on my mind that "need to get done," often bringing stress, anxiety, or fear. So, I face these thoughts, confront them, and release them.

Letting go of control is an underrated strength. This practice often brings clarity, peace, and even unexpected solutions.

Examples:

1. Let go of "hurry" and needing things now

2. Let go of anxiety about car repairs

3. Let go of trying to control provision

3. FOCUS FOR TODAY

Finally, I list the 3 things I want to focus on today—not tomorrow, not next week—just today. This keeps me present and intentional in how I use my time. If you don't tell your time where to go, it will go anyway.

Stay focused, but remain flexible.

Examples:

1. Focus on quality time with Tash

2. Focus on having fun

3. Focus on “being”

This simple routine does so much at once. It slows you down, brings you into the present, sets your priorities, raises your awareness, and helps you live more from "being" than "doing." Plus, it allows you to enjoy the goodness of God that already surrounds you.

It’s simple, yes. But the power is in its simplicity. Often, the simplest things are the most profound.

Try the 3x3 "BE" journal routine today and aim to make it a daily habit.

The compound effect over time will blow your mind.

Questions for reflection:

1. How can I slow down today and intentionally step away from a "DO" mentality to embrace a mindset of simply "BEING"?

2. What am I holding onto that I need to surrender to find peace and clarity? How might letting go free me to experience more joy and presence today?

3. What are three simple yet meaningful things I want to focus on today, and how can I stay present in each one without distraction?

Bless you,

Lee