Even a Roman emperor needed a pep talk to get out of bed.

Even Marcus Aurelius, ruling Rome through war and plague, had to coax himself out of his warm blankets in his private notebook. Instead of scolding yourself for a heavy morning, leave a kind note that reminds you why you're getting up. A gentle word to your future self can make hard mornings a little lighter.

Try today: Tonight, write one gentle line to read when you wake up tomorrow.