Becoming a morning person isn't easy. I used to wake up every day feeling so exhausted and I would have done anything for the chance to sleep in. That all changed when I started a job that required me to be up and running by 4 am every day. At first, it was awful, but once I got a routine down, I realized how beneficial it is to wake up earlier. Getting up early is a great way to reduce stress and increase productivity. If you are trying to become a morning person, here are six tips that have helped me through this process.
1. Getting On the Right Schedule
Try to get into the habit of going to sleep sooner so you will be naturally inclined to wake up earlier. Getting eight to ten hours of sleep will make you feel more refreshed versus struggling through the day on only three or four hours. Also, make sure to slot in plenty of time to get ready in the morning instead of rushing yourself. This will help you start the day feeling more relaxed.
2. Limit Your Screen Time
Something I find very helpful is limiting the amount of screen time I spend before I go to sleep. The most effective way to do this is by putting your phone somewhere out of reach a couple of hours before bed. Not only will this help you fall asleep faster, but it will also make you get out of bed to turn off your alarm clock in the morning. One cool feature my phone has allows me to change the screen time so that I can't access certain apps after a specific hour. This habit has helped me become less distracted by social media and has forced me to go to bed at a decent time.
3. Let the Natural Sunlight In
The first thing you should do when you wake up in the morning is to open your blinds.
Letting in natural light will put your body on a schedule to wake up when you see the sun shining through. It also helps get rid of grogginess and adjusts you slowly to wake up instead of turning on any harsh lights in your bedroom.
4. Exercise
Exercising might seem like the last thing you want to do after just waking up, but it is definitely something you should consider. I like to do a few minutes of yoga or stretching during my morning routine. This activity helps me reflect on what is happening in my life, relieve any tense or stiff muscles, and reduce my stress levels. Other people like to go on a morning jog or hit the gym to start their day. Whatever you decide, while it may be hard to find your motivation at first, you will feel a lot more energized and ready to start the day after a morning exercise!
5. Make Journal Entries
Writing journal entries every morning can help you start your day on a positive note. Taking the time to write about what goals you have for the day and scheduling out what you need to get done helps keep positive vibes present in your life. Writing down what is on your mind can assist in ridding of any negative emotions and may also help you remember everything you need to accomplish.
6. Make Yourself a Healthy Breakfast
An important part of having a good morning is eating a hearty breakfast. I know if I go to my classes hungry, I am in the worst mood. Making something healthy like avocado toast, a smoothie, or some cereal will give you the proper nutrients for the day and will have you feeling refreshed. I am also a coffee lover, so starting my morning right includes my daily dose of caffeine. Whether you like, coffee, tea, or orange juice, give yourself time to drink it. Whatever you prefer, make sure to pair it with a large glass of water to stay hydrated.
If you follow these tips, you will find yourself on the path to becoming a morning person in no time! Implementing a new morning routine may be daunting at first, but after a week or so, this schedule will gradually become more comfortable for you. Starting the day on a positive note can make all the difference between a bad day and a good one.
