10 Things to Consider Adding to Your Morning Routine
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I’m a big believer in the power of a good morning routine for everyone, not just kids. A strong start can shape the tone of your entire day. Let’s face it, mornings can be tough, especially when we’re feeling tired or overwhelmed as we anxiously try to get out the front door. That’s where a routine comes in handy. In the beginning, it’s like a guide to help you hit the ground running. Over time, it becomes second nature, something you flow through with ease.
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Here are a few ideas to help you ease into your day with a little more calm and intention. There’s no need to jump in all at once. Start with what feels manageable, and leave the rest for later. As your routine becomes more familiar, you can build on it when you’re ready.
10 Things to Consider Adding to Your Morning Routine
1. Set Your Alarm a Bit Earlier
Giving yourself a few extra minutes in the morning can make a big difference. It gives you time to sip your coffee, gather your thoughts, and start the day without rushing. This quiet moment, even if it’s just five or ten minutes, can help you feel more in control and less reactive. Moving your alarm back five minutes at a time until you find a wake-up window that works for you can be a great way to start waking up earlier.
2. Start with Mindfulness: Meditation and Journaling
A few quiet minutes spent meditating or journalling can really set the tone for a more grounded day. Meditation helps you feel centred, while journaling allows you to clear out mental clutter and focus on the positives. You don’t need to overthink it, just a few deep breaths or a sentence or two in a notebook can be enough to shift your mindset.
3. Get Moving
Whether it’s yoga, a brisk walk, stretching, or a full workout, moving your body helps wake up your mind. Exercise boosts your mood and energy thanks to those endorphins, and it doesn’t have to be long or intense to be effective. Even five to ten minutes of light movement can increase circulation and help shake off morning grogginess. The key is consistency, not perfection.
4. Take a Refreshing Shower
A warm shower with your favourite soap or body wash can feel like a mini reset. Taking a few moments for yourself in the morning can help you feel more confident and refreshed, and help you mentally prepare for your day.
5. Make a Simple Plan
A short to-do list or a few notes in your planner can help keep your day on track. Even jotting down one or two priorities can ease your mental load. It doesn’t have to be a full agenda, just a few clear intentions for the day can go a long way in keeping you focused and motivated.
6. Lay Out Your Clothes
Planning your wardrobe in advance can help with smooth sailing in the morning.
7. Do a Bit of Meal Prep
Even small things, like setting the table or prepping fruit and snacks ahead of time, can make mornings smoother. Try preparing ingredients the night before, cutting fruit, portioning out yogurt or oatmeal, or programming the coffeemaker in advance can help mornings feel less chaotic.
8. Look Ahead at Your Evening
Taking a quick look at your evening plans can help you better pace your day. Knowing what’s coming later on helps you manage your time and energy more intentionally. Whether it’s a kids’ activity, a work deadline, or an evening out, keeping it in mind helps you avoid surprises and overcommitting.
9. Share the Load
Where you can, lean on your community. Carpool with a neighbour, share school drop-offs, or swap favours with friends. A little collaboration can open up space in your morning.
10. Be Gentle with Yourself
Some mornings just won’t go as planned, and that’s okay. Be kind to yourself. Life can be messy, and grace goes a long way in helping you reset and move forward. Remind yourself that progress doesn’t require perfection. Just showing up and trying is enough some days.