Meet Your Mindful Mornings
How to Start a Morning Routine That Works: From a Non-Morning Person
A few weeks ago I completed my last business coaching session — if you need help leveling up in your business, Fernanda is incredible! I’ve dubbed her my Aligned Coach because it’s in a way that’s aligned with your values and serving others through your talents.
In that last session we did a guided visualization. While standing in an open field with God, I asked Him: “What do I need to do today to get to the end as my best self?” He responded: “Give me your first fruits.” I was blown away. For a long time I’ve wanted to be that person who woke up early, spent time with Him and started my day energetically and with intention. I was reminded that when we commit our time to Him, He expands our time. I don’t know how He does it, but in all the years I’ve walked with Jesus, I know He’s able!
After years of trying. I’ve finally committed to prioritizing my mornings and sharing here what’s worked for me. If you're like me and mornings feel like a struggle, but you aspire to become a "morning person," I’m here to tell you it's entirely possible. The secret isn’t in a complete overhaul, but in a few intentional tweaks that make waking up early less daunting and even enjoyable. Here’s how to set up a morning routine that’s easy to stick to and rewarding.
1. Set Yourself Up for Success the Night Before
A successful morning routine starts the evening before. I have a practice I like to call "putting my home to bed." This means I spend a few minutes tidying my space, making sure the kitchen is clean, and resetting my common areas. It’s tempting to skip this step and leave dishes for the morning, but I remind myself how refreshing it feels to wake up to a tidy home. An orderly space can truly make a difference in how I start my day, setting me up for a calm, focused morning.
How to "Put Your Home to Bed":
Wipe down kitchen counters and load or run the dishwasher.
Tidy up the living room—fluff pillows, fold blankets, and clear any clutter.
Lay out anything you might need for the next morning, like your workout clothes or a journal.
This simple evening ritual reduces morning stress and makes it easier to ease into my day with a positive mindset.
2. Start Small: Adjust Your Alarm Gradually
If the idea of waking up an hour earlier sounds dreadful, start small. Set your alarm just 15 minutes earlier than your usual wake-up time and stick with this for three days. You’ll be surprised by how quickly your body begins to adjust! On day four, you may even find yourself waking up naturally a few minutes before the alarm.
It’s also essential to go to bed at a reasonable hour to make this work. I aim to be in bed by 10 PM to wake up by 5 AM. Trust me, I’ve tried jumping straight to an hour-earlier wake-up and failed miserably. By making gradual shifts, you’re giving yourself a chance to adjust without the burnout that comes from drastic change.
3. Decide What Matters Most in Your Morning
What would make your morning feel fulfilling? The beauty of a morning routine is that it’s entirely customizable to your needs. Maybe you want a few quiet moments for journaling, a skincare routine that feels indulgent, or a quick workout to wake up your body.
My morning routine typically includes:
Non-toxic skincare – A little self-care that makes me feel refreshed.
Quiet reflection – I start my day with a moment to read my Bible.
Movement – Sometimes it’s a quick stretch, sometimes a short workout.
Warm lemon water – A comforting way to wake up my system.
Optional work – If I wake up extra early, I sometimes use the time to get a head start on work, but only if it feels right.
Choose a few simple, enjoyable practices that leave you feeling grounded and energized.
4. Use a Simple Morning Framework
To make this process easier, here’s a simple framework to get you started:
Mindful Moments
Spend five minutes in quiet reflection. You could meditate, pray, or simply breathe deeply. A little stillness in the morning can go a long way in setting a positive tone for the day.
Tidy a Small Space
Clear one small area, like your bedside table or bathroom counter. Not only does this make your space feel lighter, but it also builds momentum for a productive day ahead.
Simplify Your Essentials
Gather only the essentials you need for your morning—whether it’s skincare products, a journal, or your workout gear. This reduces decision fatigue and makes it easy to start your day effortlessly.
Remember, Progress Over Perfection
As a recovering perfectionist, I’ve had to learn the importance of small, manageable changes. A morning routine doesn’t have to be elaborate to be effective. Start with one or two of these ideas, then gradually build on them. The goal is to create a routine that feels supportive, not overwhelming.
Minimalist Tip:
Just 15 Minutes — Set yourself up for success by setting your alarm just 15 minutes earlier than normal for the first 3 days.
With just a few intentional tweaks, you can start to enjoy mornings instead of dreading them. By putting your home to bed, gradually adjusting your wake-up time, and choosing a few meaningful morning rituals, you’ll find yourself feeling more grounded and ready to face the day.
One small step at a time.
Ready to Transform Your Mornings?
Here’s to mornings that feel calm, joyful, and completely doable! Come share your morning routine or tips over on IG — I love to be inspired!
