Let’s face it, we’re all familiar with this feeling. That groggy, sluggish feeling that makes it seem nearly impossible to get out of bed. It may be tempting to sleep the day away, but the reality is, many of us don’t have that luxury. As strange and/or painful as it sounds, those early hours can actually become the most productive time of your day! Because your actions for a better morning routine sets you up for the rest of the day, it’s important to dedicate some time in the morning to you and you only— even if you’re juggling a busy schedule! While we can’t all be morning people, there are definitely some ways to help your morning flow a little more smoothly. Here are some helpful tips to help you nail down your perfect routine.
Image via The Everygirl
.01 – Don’t sleep with your phone on your nightstand!
No, seriously. This may sound like an impossibility, but it’s so worth it. Not only does it decrease screen time right before bed (because a good nighttime routine is also the best morning routine), but it also makes it nearly impossible for you to snooze your alarm when you have to get out of bed to turn it off. This way you can also check your phone while you have your tea kettle or coffee maker warming up, getting you that much closer to starting your day!
.02 – Speaking of coffee…
Okay, this one is also going to sound like a bummer, but don’t shoot the messenger! Before you enjoy that nice hot cuppa, make sure to hydrate first. No, it isn’t as satisfying in the moment but you lose a lot of water during those eight hours at night. Guzzle down a cup or two right when you wake up, and you start your day off on a much glowier note!
.03 – Start with a workout.
Getting moving first thing in the morning is a great way to wake up and feel like you’ve accomplished something before you even open your computer. Even if it’s just a 10-minute yoga routine when you roll out of bed, it’s worth it!
.04 – Eat a real breakfast.
Like eggs and sausage kind of breakfast. We promise your day will be off to a good start if you start with a healthy and delicious breakfast! Don’t have time? A protein smoothie with fiber and healthy fats will do, too!
.05 – Write down the next day’s to-do list the night before.
Before shutting your computer and wrapping up the day, write down your goals relating to work that you want to accomplish the next day. You can do the same for your personal goals! That way, when you sit down ready to work the next day you have a clear idea on what your priorities are!
.06 – Give yourself time to accomplish something before you sit down to work for the day.
It’s important to set boundaries between life and work. Waking up and immediately logging in to conquer that inbox right away can surprisingly result in lower productivity. Get outside for a neighborhood walk, sit down with coffee and a good read, or tune into a live workout. That way when you’re done you’ll feel like you’re actually ready to take on the day.
.07 – Incorporate a small treat to yourself in the mornings.
Whether this includes jade rolling, a 10 minute meditation session, a mini-dance party to your favorite song, or a homemade latte, starting your day with something small that brings you joy will help put you in the right mindset to start your day. It also helps make it a little easier to get out of bed in the mornings on days when you’re feeling extra attached to your bed when you know you’ve got a treat waiting for you when you’re up!
Image via Jenni Kayne
.08 – Set out your clothes the night before.
There’s a reason why our parents did this for us when we were little kids! This small act will simplify your morning routine – no more tossing clothes off the hangers while you search your closet for something to wear! Even if you’re planning on simply wearing your favorite pair of sweats, setting out your clothes the night before means there’s one less task on your morning checklist, giving you more time to focus on the other parts of your routine.
.09 – Watch your tone.
You probably had your parents on you once or twice when you were younger about how to talk to them, but take a step back and think about how you talk to yourself. When you wake up, don’t immediately jump to the worst-case scenario– “I have so much to do today”, “I only got 4 hours of sleep last night.”. Making subtle changes to your attitude does wonder for your productivity. “I WILL get so much done today”, “I made the most out of my 4 hours of sleep last night!”.
.10 – Put your phone in time out.
Find a spot on the opposite side of your room, or even outside of your room to charge your phone. We’d be lying if we said the first thing we reach for when we are just opening our eyes wasn’t our phone, and that’s because we have our devices within reach (on our nightstand, under our pillow, etc.). That hour that you use scrolling various feeds in bed, could be spent reading, stretching, making breakfast, or even meditating.
