—
My Morning Routine
Waking up with the sunrise has always been my thing. It just gives me a burst of energy that lasts all day, and I love the feeling of it!
Vacation Mornings
When I’m on vacation by the ocean, like during my recent trip to Hawaii, my favorite way to start the day is by walking on the beach with my feet in the water, watching the sunrise. It’s a beautiful, relaxing way to clear my mind and energize my body for the day ahead.
Regular Mornings
Of course, I’m not always on vacation. When I’m at home, my mornings start differently, but the goal is the same—to find daily inspiration.
Researching Morning Routines
I’m a huge fan of learning about the morning routines of successful folks, whether they’re famous authors, entrepreneurs, or just everyday people. It’s fascinating to see what works for them. One key thing I’ve learned is that your morning routine should be unique to you. Inspired by others, yes, but tailored to fit your personality and lifestyle. What works for someone else might not necessarily work for you.
My Journey to the Perfect Morning Routine
About three years ago, I was juggling full-time grad school, part-time work, and running this blog. It was chaotic, and I was overwhelmed. That’s when I decided to create a morning routine to help me feel more productive and less stressed.
My Evening Routine
Preparing for the next day starts the night before. Here’s what I do:
– About an hour before bed, I might do a facial or use a sheet mask and follow my night skincare routine.
– I avoid looking at my phone for at least 30 minutes before bed, although I do read on my Kindle.
– I journal about my day and jot down my goals for the next day.
– I read a good book for about half an hour.
– I meditate or pray to prepare my mind for sleep.
– I make sure to schedule at least 7-8 hours of sleep and set my sunrise alarm for 6:00 am.
My Morning Routine, Step-by-Step
6:00 AM – The Alarm
The gradual light from my sunrise alarm eases me into waking up by 6:00 am.
6:05 AM – Prayer
I start my day with a gratitude prayer to set a positive tone.
6:08 AM – Drink Water and Refresh
After drinking a glass of water, I splash my face with ice-cold water to wake up.
6:10 AM – Meditation
I do a guided meditation for about 10 minutes.
6:20 AM – Journal Writing
In the morning, I write about my dreams, goals, and what I’m thankful for.
6:30 AM – Inspirational Reading
I read a chapter of a motivational non-fiction book.
6:40 AM – Make the Bed
Making my bed gives me a small sense of accomplishment to start my day.
6:45 AM – Stretching
A quick 5-minute stretch to prepare my body for the day.
6:50 AM – Exercise
Depending on the day, I do a mix of exercises, including walking, yoga, or dancing.
7:50 AM – Tackle a Small Task
I spend 10 minutes on a small task like paying bills or tidying up.
8:00 AM – Breakfast
I cook a healthy breakfast with my sister, often oatmeal with fruit, a green smoothie, or eggs and veggies.
8:45 AM – Get Ready
On work-from-home days, I take a quick shower, do my skincare routine, and get dressed.
9:00 AM – Creative Writing
I dedicate time to my fiction writing before starting my regular work.
9:30 AM – Work
I start working on the website, using time blocks to manage tasks and fit in mini-breaks to move around.
And that’s my morning routine in a nutshell!
Tips for Creating Your Own Morning Routine
1. Do Your Research: Read about different routines and see what others do to find inspiration.
2. Set Priorities the Night Before: Plan what you need to do the next day.
3. Begin with Gratitude: Start your day by reflecting on what you’re thankful for.
4. Make Your Bed: It’s a small task that sets a productive tone for the day.
5. Do Something for You: Incorporate a bit of “me” time into your routine.
Creating and sticking to a morning routine can positively change your life. Whether you have a morning routine already or are trying to develop one, personalizing it to fit your needs is key.
