My New Early Morning Routine and Why It's Been Critical

I’ve officially joined the early riser crew y’all! This is a cause for celebration! Here’s the backstory…

For most of my adult life, I've been a night owl, typically going to sleep around midnight or later. This habit started in college, where I stayed up late studying and doing assignments, talking on the phone, and watching TV. It continued as I entered the career world, balancing a full-time job and late-night business tasks. Now, as a mom of four with two very young children who often co-sleep (pray for me as we try to break them out of this), I no longer have the energy to stay up past midnight. Since the twins arrived, they've become my alarm clock, though not how I envisioned starting my days.

Starting the day with 'me time' has become crucial for mental and physical health. I'm only a couple of months into this routine, and very much in a progress over perfection state, but in general, waking up at 5 AM has truly been a game changer for me in such a short amount of time! I can't believe I'm saying this because I never thought it was possible. I've even joined a 5 AM wake-up accountability group! My goal has been 5 AM on weekdays and 6 AM on weekends. Despite missing the mark some days, so much progress and consistency has happened and I’m sticking beside my new routine.

A few years ago, I read The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod, and it introduced me to the SAVERS framework—a set of practices aimed at transforming your mornings and, subsequently, your life. The SAVERS method includes Silence, Affirmations, Visualization, Exercise, Reading, and Scribing. I was inspired by the idea back then, but for some reason the waking up early thing never stuck. But fast forward to today, and here’s how I’m spending my early mornings:

Prayer

Starting my day with God is a major key…period! I go sit in the rocker in the twins’ room, where lots of sunlight eventually peeks in after sunrise, and there I have my prayer time, followed by reading my dally devotional and scripture passages via the Bible App. Sometimes this is 10 minutes and other mornings much longer. It’s not about the clock though, and more about connecting with God and ourselves.

Setting the Day's Agenda

Next, I outline or review my schedule and priorities in Milanote and on my task pad. This early planning helps me approach the day with clarity and purpose. As a person who struggles with anxiety, having a clear outlook on things really helps to steady me and give me focus.

Stretching and Meditation

My physical health has become increasingly important, too, as I battle a chronic back issue. I dedicate time to stretching and quiet meditation, which helps to alleviate the back pain, center my mind and prepare my body for the day.

Hydration and Fuel

Staying hydrated with water and enjoying a cup of coffee are essential parts of my morning routine, providing the necessary energy to kick-start my day.

Journaling

I find the best ideas come to me in the morning and lots of clarity comes through journaling, so I include thinking and writing time in my morning routine.

Early Business Start

With a head start on business tasks before the household wakes up and before I have to log on for my full-time, I find myself more productive and creative during these quiet morning hours. Getting a quick win early helps to motivate me for the day ahead.

MY “awaken” FRAMEWORK

If you're considering embracing early mornings, whether out of necessity like me or simply to enhance your daily routine, I encourage you to start small and be patient with yourself. Establishing a morning routine that works for you takes time and persistence, but the rewards are well worth the effort. Here’s a morning framework/acronym I came up with that aligns with my morning routine, and you are welcome to adopt this, as well. If you do, please let me know and tag me on Instagram.

A - Alarm: Set your alarm the night before and resist the urge to snooze when it goes off. This initial act of discipline sets a positive tone for your day.

W - Worship: Take time for spiritual connection. Whether through prayer, reading scripture, or quiet reflection, centering yourself spiritually can provide a sense of peace and guidance from God.

A - Affirm: Engage in practices that uplift your mindset, such as meditation, repeating affirmations, or visualizing your goals. This mental preparation helps to cultivate a positive outlook and intention for the day ahead.

K - Kickstart: Begin by focusing on your top priority. Review your schedule and outline your tasks for the day. Starting with clarity and purpose sets the stage for productivity and accomplishment.

E - Exercise: Incorporate physical activity into your morning routine. Whether it’s a workout, yoga session, or a brisk walk, moving your body energizes you physically and mentally, boosting your mood and overall well-being.

N - Nourish: Fuel your body and mind. Drink your water, eat breakfast, do skincare or nourish yourself however you choose to.

This framework is designed to help you start your day with intention and positivity, promoting a balanced and productive mindset. Feel free to customize it to suit your preferences and lifestyle. If you find it helpful, I'd love to hear about your experience! Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram if you decide to incorporate the AWAKEN framework into your morning routine.

Benefits of Waking Up Early

The benefits of waking up at 5 AM (or early in general) extend far beyond productivity. Here are some key advantages I've discovered:

Peaceful Start: Waking up early allows me to ease into the day peacefully, without the rush and chaos that often accompanies later wake-up times.

Me Time: This early morning "me time" is invaluable. It's a period of self-care and personal growth that sets a positive tone for the entire day.

Increased Productivity: Starting my day early gives me a head start on important tasks and allows me to be more proactive rather than reactive throughout the day.

Improved Mood: By investing in myself first thing in the morning, I find that I'm more patient, resilient, and present for my family when they wake up.

Here's to early mornings filled with purpose, growth, and a little bit of peace before the world wakes up.

Keep glowing,

Shalyce