I have the same process every morning. I brush my teeth, wash my

"I have the same process every morning. I brush my teeth, wash my face, shower, get dressed and then I'm pretty much on the go. I might have coffee. I might not. I might just wing it, and that's that." These words from Jenna Ortega speak to the importance of routine and the comfort of structure in the face of a world that often feels chaotic. Ortega’s description of her morning process reflects the age-old human need for ritual, where the small, seemingly mundane actions of the day serve as anchors that ground us in a world that is constantly in motion. She embraces a flexible approach to the day, where consistency in her morning routine offers both stability and freedom—a paradox that many of the ancients understood and valued deeply.

In the ancient world, the concept of ritual was sacred, woven into the fabric of both daily life and spiritual practice. For the Greeks, the importance of habits and structure was often connected to their philosophy. Aristotle, in particular, believed that our habits formed our character, and he asserted that virtuous living was achieved through the repetition of good practices. Much like Ortega’s morning routine, the Greeks saw daily practices, whether in the form of morning rituals or philosophical reflection, as essential to living a life of purpose. Aristotle taught that consistency in one’s actions, whether through exercise, study, or spiritual practices, was the path to true flourishing. Ortega’s routine, while not as philosophical, speaks to this ancient wisdom: the small, regular acts we perform each day shape who we become.

Consider the famous Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius, who, in his writings, stressed the importance of routine and self-reflection. Marcus would begin his days with a moment of quiet reflection, preparing himself mentally for the challenges ahead, a practice he believed was essential to leading with wisdom. In his Meditations, he outlines the simple, yet profound, rituals that allowed him to navigate the complexities of ruling an empire. His approach to the day was intentional and structured, despite the heavy responsibilities he bore. Ortega, too, seems to find comfort and clarity in the consistency of her morning process, suggesting that having a set routine, even in the most ordinary of actions, can ground us for the challenges of the day ahead.

The idea of embracing routine to create a sense of calm and purpose is not just found in ancient philosophy but in the lives of modern-day figures who recognize the value of structure. Benjamin Franklin, a man known for his disciplined life, famously began each day by asking, “What good shall I do this day?” His mornings were shaped by a series of deliberate rituals, including reading, exercise, and self-examination. Franklin believed that how we begin our day sets the tone for everything that follows. Like Franklin, Ortega’s morning routine, while simple, sets the foundation for her day, ensuring she’s mentally prepared to take on whatever comes her way.

However, Ortega’s mention of the possibility of “winging it”—of having flexibility in her routine—also reveals a deeper insight into the human need for balance. While routine and structure are important, the capacity to remain adaptable is equally essential. The Stoics, for example, while advocating for daily reflection and self-control, also recognized that life would inevitably throw unexpected challenges our way. They taught that virtue lies not just in routine, but in the ability to adapt and maintain equanimity in the face of the unforeseen. Ortega’s approach, where she gives herself the freedom to choose or change aspects of her routine, embraces this Stoic balance: structure and flexibility combined to create a harmonious start to the day.

The lesson in Ortega’s words is simple, yet profound: routine, when grounded in intention, brings clarity, but flexibility allows for the freedom to adapt to life’s uncertainties. Just as Marcus Aurelius prepared himself for the day with intentional rituals, Ortega’s morning habits set the tone for her day, offering a sense of calm and readiness. It is in the balance between consistency and adaptability that we find the ability to navigate life with strength and resilience.

In our own lives, we must consider how we can shape our mornings to create a sense of purpose and focus, even as we allow space for the unexpected. Whether it is through a few minutes of meditation, exercise, or a quiet cup of coffee, we can craft a morning ritual that sets us on the path to success. Like Ortega, we might find comfort in the familiarity of routine while embracing the freedom to adjust when needed. By prioritizing intentionality in our mornings, we can cultivate a sense of peace and readiness to take on whatever challenges the day may bring, just as the ancients taught us to do.