The Closing Shift
That Quiet Morning Win
You know the feeling when you wake up in the morning, look around your home, and appreciate how clean it is — all because you spent a few minutes tidying up the night before?
That quiet wow, past-me really showed up feeling. It’s calm. It’s grounding. And it sets the tone for the entire day.
I like to call those few minutes at the end of the night the Closing Shift.
For anyone who’s worked in retail, the phrase probably brings up a mix of dread and mild trauma. (The lights are half off, your feet hurt, and someone will walk in five minutes before close.)
But the Closing Shift at home isn’t so bad — I promise.
It’s simply a handful of mini chores you do before bed so that tomorrow-you doesn’t wake up already feeling behind. When you open your eyes in the morning, the only real decision you have to make is what you’re having for breakfast. Revolutionary, I know.
No, This Is Not a Deep Clean
The Closing Shift isn’t about vacuuming, mopping, washing windows, or deep-cleaning your bathroom at 10:47 p.m. This isn’t a glow-up montage.
It’s about small, manageable tasks that make a noticeable difference. Things like taking the garbage out, tidying up the coffee table, putting your dog’s toys away, or finally folding the clean laundry that’s been staring at you for days now.
No judgment. Laundry is a scam.
Why Anxious Brains Love This
For anxious minds, mornings can feel rushed before they even begin. There’s often a quiet pressure to catch up, even if nothing has technically gone wrong yet.
The Closing Shift helps reduce that invisible mental load. When you wake up to a space that feels calmer, your nervous system gets the message that you’re not behind — you’re already supported.
It’s not about control. It’s about reducing friction where you can, so your energy goes toward living instead of managing overwhelm.
If You’re Already Doing This
If you already practice the Closing Shift, great job. You’re already prioritizing your emotional well-being by tackling the boring stuff sooner rather than later and protecting your future time and energy.
That counts. Even if it doesn’t feel impressive.
If You’re Reading This Thinking “Absolutely Not”
If this is new to you — or if you’re reading this thinking “absolutely f**ing not” — I get it. You’re tired. Your brain is done. The couch is calling your name.
But don’t knock it ’til you try it 😉
Tonight, do one small chore. Just one. See how you feel in the morning. Tomorrow night, try two. No overachieving required.
Make It Part of Your Wind-Down
Incorporate the Closing Shift into your bedtime routine. While your serums are drying and you’re standing there questioning all your life choices, put a few dirty dishes into the dishwasher.
Tiny effort. Noticeable payoff.
Closing the Day Gently
The Closing Shift isn’t about being productive — it’s about being kind to yourself in a very practical way.
Think of it as a love note to your future self — written in folded laundry and a clear coffee table.
Journal Prompts
How do my mornings usually feel — rushed, heavy, calm, or something else?
What’s one small task I avoid at night that tends to follow me into the next day?
If tonight’s Closing Shift were a love note to my future self, what would it say?