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Try This Realistic Morning Routine for a Productive Day
Mornings can be a struggle for many of us. Whether it’s hitting the snooze button multiple times, rushing through breakfast, or feeling groggy and unmotivated, starting the day on the right foot can seem like an impossible task. However, a structured and realistic morning routine can transform your day, setting you up for success and productivity. In this post, I’ll share a practical morning routine that anyone can follow to enhance their productivity and overall well-being.
As a busy mom of six, it’s easy to feel stressed out and frustrated by the number of tasks on my to-do list every morning. Instead of letting that ruin my entire day, I’ve created a realistic morning routine that flows into the rest of my day, ensuring I finish important tasks and have time for things I enjoy as well.
This routine has helped me start this blog, grow my following on social media, and still homeschool our children and bake from scratch throughout the week!
If you’re struggling to get things done, creating the perfect morning routine for your lifestyle is a great way to make time for things in your life that bring you joy.
Why should I implement a daily routine?
A consistent morning routine has numerous benefits that extend throughout the day. It can help improve mental clarity and focus, making it easier to tackle tasks efficiently. A well-planned morning also enhances productivity, as it sets a positive tone for the rest of the day. Additionally, a morning routine can contribute to better energy levels and physical and mental health by incorporating activities like exercise, mindfulness, and healthy eating.
Scientific studies also support the benefits of morning routines. Research shows that people who have structured mornings are more likely to experience lower stress levels, higher energy, and better overall health. However, there are common myths about morning routines, such as the belief that you need to wake up at 5 AM to be successful. The truth is, the best morning routine is one that fits your lifestyle and preferences. Sure, there are habits that successful people adopt, like drinking a glass of water or going for a long run, but you have to find what works best for you.
How to create a realistic morning routine you can stick to
Instead of scrolling through social media first thing in the morning, support your circadian rhythm by getting some morning light on your face. This supports healthy vitamin D absorption, strengthens your immune system, improves sleep, and can help combat symptoms of depression and anxiety. Even 5 minutes of sunlight in the morning can provide incredible health benefits! I try to avoid screens for the first hour I’m awake, but if this is not an option for you, even delaying it by 10-15 minutes can help.
Set the foundation
A productive morning starts the night before. Getting a good night’s sleep is crucial for feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep and establish a consistent sleep schedule regardless of the day of the week. To improve sleep quality, create a relaxing bedtime routine that includes activities like reading, meditating, or taking a warm bath with Epsom salt, which has magnesium in it and supports restful sleep. My favorite brands are Epsoak and Ancient Minerals. Epsom salt is great for soothing sore muscles and improving sleep. I like to soak for an hour a few times a week, and it always encourages deep sleep. Give it a try and see if it improves your sleep.
Night-time habits can also set you up for a successful morning. Plan your day the night before by writing a to-do list or setting your intentions. This helps clear your mind and reduces morning decision-making. Prepare your clothes and meals/snacks in advance to save time in the morning. Additionally, reduce screen time before bed, as the blue light from devices can interfere with your sleep. Aim to turn off electronics at least an hour before bedtime to help relax your mind and reduce exposure to EMFs, which can disturb your sleep cycle. If using electronics before bed is a must, get a pair of blue-light-blocking glasses to help reduce the strain on your eyes.
Wake up at the same time each day
Finding your optimal wake-up time is essential for a good morning routine. Waking up too early can lead to sleep deprivation while waking up too late can make you feel rushed and stressed. To determine the best wake-up time for you, consider your natural sleep patterns and daily schedule. I prefer going to sleep early and waking up early. I am not a night owl, but this will vary for different people. If you are not naturally a morning person, gradually adjust your alarm clock in 15-minute increments until you find what works best.
The benefits of waking up early without sacrificing sleep are numerous. You’ll have more time to complete your morning routine, which can reduce stress and improve your overall mood. Additionally, waking up early allows you to enjoy some quiet time before the hustle and bustle of the day begins.
Drink water to rehydrate
Hydration is crucial first thing in the morning and should be the first task of the day. Drinking water immediately after waking up helps kickstart your metabolism, flush out toxins, and rehydrate your body after a night of sleep. Aim to drink at least one glass of water upon waking. Try different temperatures of water if you’re struggling to make this a habit, or add a slice of lemon for an extra boost of vitamins and flavor. This can be a difficult adjustment if you’re not used to making water consumption a priority, but try different things to see what works best for you. Plain water isn’t always as hydrating as we think it is. Add a sprinkle of salt or sliced fruits to help ensure that your body is absorbing the water you drink instead of flushing out important minerals.
If you’re still struggling to drink water, try getting a new water bottle. I find that using a fat straw and just a couple of ice cubes is the best combination for me and makes drinking enough water at the start of the day much easier.
Morning hygiene practices are also important for feeling refreshed and ready to start the day. Begin with a skincare routine that you feel works for your skin and helps you feel good. Oral hygiene is equally important; brushing and flossing your teeth and using a metal tongue scraper improve bad breath and can help you feel more awake and ready to face the day. Whether you workout in the mornings or head off to work, taking a show and allowing for a few minutes of self-care is an excellent way to have a better day. Try a cold shower if you need a little help waking up!
Mindfulness and setting intentions
It may sound silly if you’ve never been someone who implements positive affirmations in their realistic morning routine, but I love adding them to my routine. Simple rituals like setting your intentions for the day can significantly impact your overall well-being and improve your self-esteem. Other mindfulness practices, such as meditation, deep breathing, or journaling, can help you feel grounded and present. Spend a few minutes focusing on your breath or writing down your thoughts and feelings. This can help reduce stress and increase your ability to focus on the tasks ahead.
Setting daily intentions or goals is another powerful way to start your day. Think about what you want to achieve and set realistic, achievable goals. Say these goals out loud. I know it may feel silly the first time, but they can be so beneficial. Examples include, “I am capable of handling whatever comes my way” or “Today, I will focus on good work-life balance and make progress balancing my responsibilities.” Setting your intentions for the day and speaking them out loud is the best way to ensure you reach those goals.
Stop skipping breakfast
A healthy breakfast must be part of creating a realistic morning routine. Nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining energy and focus throughout the day, and a balanced breakfast provides the necessary fuel for your body and brain. It’s essential to include a mix of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates to keep you full and energized. If you’ve never been a breakfast person, I want to encourage you to start implementing a healthy meal in the mornings. This is especially important for women as we need to balance blood sugar for healthy hormone balance. Cortisol levels spike when we skip meals, drink coffee before eating, and exercise too vigorously. I know that long run you love may feel good in the moment, but do yourself and your hormones a favor and eat a nutritious breakfast first.
Quick and easy breakfast ideas can save time and ensure you start your day with a nutritious meal. Consider options like overnight oats, smoothie bowls, or whole-grain toast with avocado and eggs. These meals can be prepared in advance, making them convenient for busy mornings. Meal prepping breakfast can also be a time-saver; prepare ingredients the night before so you can assemble your meal quickly in the morning. Now you don’t have to tell yourself you don’t have enough time for breakfast.
Move your body
Speaking of your morning run, physical activity in the morning can boost your energy levels and improve your mood. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. Incorporating movement into your morning routine doesn’t have to be time-consuming or intense. Even a short workout can make a significant difference. Remember to set your workout clothes on your bed or dresser the night before so you know where they are and don’t have to spend a long time finding what you need. Little things like this make creating a realistic morning routine simple!
Different types of morning exercises can suit various preferences and fitness levels. You can start with a few minutes of stretching or yoga to wake up your muscles and improve flexibility and blood flow. Consider a quick cardio session or bodyweight exercises if you prefer a more vigorous workout. The key is to find an activity you enjoy and can stick to consistently and implement in your daily life. Start small, with just 5-10 minutes, and gradually increase the duration as you build the habit.
Organize and plan your day
Planning your day in the morning can help you stay organized and focused. Start by reviewing your to-do list and prioritizing tasks. Identify the most critical tasks that need to be completed, allocate time for them, and choose which tasks you may be able to put off until the next day. Planners, apps, or simple to-do lists can help you keep track of your schedule and tasks.
Effective daily planning involves setting specific goals and deadlines. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps. This makes it easier to tackle your to-do list and reduces feelings of overwhelm. Additionally, try to schedule breaks and downtime to avoid burnout. Planning your day thoughtfully can lead to better time management and increased productivity.
Embrace flexibility
Perfection is not the goal when it comes to a new morning routine. One of the most important things is to be flexible and adapt your routine to fit your lifestyle and needs. Understand that some days may not go as planned, and that’s okay. The key is to stay consistent and make adjustments as needed. The best morning habits are the ones you can stick to and make an improvement in your life.
Handling disruptions is a part of life. If your morning routine gets interrupted, try not to stress. Instead, it’s a good idea to focus on getting back on track as soon as possible. Have backup plans for common disruptions, such as preparing breakfast the night before or having a quick workout routine for busy days. Flexibility and realism are crucial for maintaining a sustainable and realistic morning routine.
Tips for maintaining your realistic morning routine
Staying consistent with your healthy morning routine can be challenging, but it’s essential for long-term success. Building habits takes time, so be patient with yourself! Use reminders and accountability tools, such as alarms, apps, or a routine tracker, to help you stay on track. I like seeing tasks checked off, so using an app is a great idea for me. If that’s not what motivates you, though, find what does and use that to help you reach your goals.
It’s also important to evaluate what works and what doesn’t in your routine. Regularly assess your morning ritual and make adjustments as needed. This might involve changing the order of activities, trying new exercises, or experimenting with different breakfast options. Continuous improvement ensures that your routine remains effective and enjoyable.
Let’s review how to create a realistic morning routine
Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a productive morning routine:
- Prep meals and workout gear the night before so your morning starts on a positive note
- Turn off electronics an hour before bedtime to encourage 7-9 hours of restful sleep every night
- Get sunshine on your face and drink water before grabbing your phone to scroll through social media
- Eat a balanced breakfast with protein, healthy fats, and carbs before your first cup of coffee
- Move your body in a way that helps you feel good
- Speak positively about your goals and aspirations for the day
- Prioritize your responsibilities and focus on important work first
- Embrace flexibility and changes in schedule
The benefits of a morning routine are endless: more time in your day, improved mood, time for yourself before other responsibilities, and more. If you’ve never implemented a morning routine, I want to encourage you to give it a try! The best part is that it’s completely customizable based on your needs and responsibilities.
A realistic morning routine can significantly impact your productivity and overall well-being. By incorporating elements such as adequate sleep, hydration, mindfulness, exercise, and healthy eating, you can set a positive tone for the rest of the day. Remember, the best morning routine is one that fits your lifestyle and needs. Start small, stay flexible, and make adjustments as needed. Over time, you’ll find that a consistent morning routine can lead to improved mental clarity, better time management, and a more productive and fulfilling day.
Whatever works best for you, make it a priority and free up time in your schedule for more important things like spending time with your family or reaching goals in your professional life. What habits have you made part of your daily routine? I’d love to hear from you in the comments below!
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