The Best Secrets to Waking Up Early as a Mom
Waking up early as a mom can feel like an impossible dream. Between late-night feedings, endless to-do lists, and sheer exhaustion, the idea of rising before the kids might seem laughable. But what if waking up early could actually make your day smoother and more productive? With a few practical strategies and a sprinkle of determination, you can master the art of early mornings. Let’s explore how!
Affiliate Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase through one of my links. Thank you for supporting my blog!
Why Waking Up Early Can Transform Your Day
Picture this: the house is quiet, your coffee is hot, and you actually have time to think before the chaos begins. Waking up early gives you a head start, allowing you to:
- Enjoy uninterrupted time for self-care.
- Plan your day with a clear mind.
- Complete tasks without distractions.
For me, the shift happened when I realized I needed time to recharge before tackling the demands of motherhood. My early mornings became a sanctuary—a time to journal, read, stretch, and sip coffee while the world was still asleep.
Step 1: Start the Night Before
The secret to waking up early lies in preparation. Here are some tips to set yourself up for success:
- Establish a Bedtime Routine:
- Wind down with calming activities like reading or taking a warm bath. I love to use my Kindle to not scroll on my phone before bed and it helps make me sleepy.
- Limit screen time at least an hour before bed to help your mind relax.
- Prepare for the Morning:
- Lay out your clothes.
- Set up your coffee maker or prep your favorite morning brew.
- Write a quick to-do list for the next day.
- Prioritize Sleep:
- Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep. Remember, a well-rested mom is a happy mom.
Step 2: Create a Motivating Morning Routine
Having something to look forward to can make waking up early more appealing. Here’s a simple and effective routine:
- Wake Up with Gratitude: Start your day by listing three things you’re grateful for.
- Hydrate: Drink a glass of water to rehydrate after sleep.
- Move Your Body: Whether it’s yoga, a quick workout, or a dance session alone or with your toddler, movement energizes you. I love dance workouts on YouTube, they’re fast and free!
- Enjoy Your Coffee or Tea: Treat yourself to a quiet moment with your favorite beverage.
- Plan Your Day: Spend 5-10 minutes reviewing your goals or to-do list.
I keep this to-do list on my kitchen counter so I can do a quick brain dump when I walk downstairs to make my coffee.
Step 3: Gradual Adjustments Work Best
If you’re not naturally a morning person, don’t worry! Transitioning to an earlier wake-up time can be done gradually:
- Set Your Alarm 15 Minutes Earlier Each Week: This small shift makes the adjustment feel manageable.
- Avoid Hitting Snooze: Place your alarm across the room to force yourself out of bed.
- Reward Yourself: Celebrate your progress with small treats like a new book, a Starbucks coffee, or that plant you have been eyeing.
Step 4: Overcoming Common Challenges to Waking Up Early
Waking up early isn’t always easy, especially as a mom. Here’s how to tackle common roadblocks:
- Late Nights: If your kids keep you up, focus on getting quality sleep when you can. A quick nap during their naptime can help.
- Lack of Motivation: Remind yourself why you want to wake up early. Visualize the peaceful mornings and how they make your day better.
- Interruptions: Invest in noise-canceling headphones or find a quiet corner to create a distraction-free zone.
Step 5: Involve Your Family
Your family can support your new routine in small but meaningful ways:
- Talk to Your Partner: Share your goals and ask for help with nighttime duties.
- Teach Your Kids Morning Independence: Encourage older kids to start their day with simple tasks like brushing their teeth or making their bed.
- Create a Morning Chart: Use a visual chart to guide your kids through their morning routine while you focus on yours.
Real-Life Tips from a Fellow Mom
Here’s what worked for me as I transitioned to early mornings:
- Consistency is Key: The first week was tough, but sticking to the routine made it easier.
- Invest in Comfort: A cozy robe and slippers made those early mornings feel luxurious and warm.
- Be Kind to Yourself: Some days didn’t go as planned, and that’s okay. Progress, not perfection!
Morning Product Recommendations
To make your mornings even better, consider these game-changers:
- Sunrise Alarm Clock: Wake up gently with simulated sunlight.
- Plush Robe: I wouldn’t get out of bed in the winter without a fuzzy robe and socks.
- Productivity Planner: Keep your day organized and on track.
Let’s Chat About Waking Up Early!
What’s your biggest struggle when it comes to waking up early? Do you have any tips or tricks that have worked for you? Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear your experiences and learn from your journey.
Remember, waking up early is a journey, not a sprint. By making small, consistent changes, you can create a morning routine that sets the tone for a calmer, more productive day. You’ve got this, mama!
Looking for more tips on simplifying motherhood? Check out these related posts:
Love the tips!!
Thank you!