Waking up early is certainly a discipline that can take time. The moment you hear your alarm in the morning, and you realize that you have to get to work, leave your cozy, comfy bed and start your morning routine is not very motivating. However, waking up early does allow you to maximize the day, especially before work- maybe to fit in a morning run or some quiet time. How you use the extra time is up to you, but let’s talk about how to gain that extra time in the morning by starting your day earlier.
1. Start gradually
Waking up early doesn’t happen right away. Start off slowly, by incrementally moving back the time your alarm goes off. Work in 15 minute increments. This will be less of a shock to your mind and body as you start to get up early.
2. Create a bedtime routine
Your morning is a reflection of the rest you get the night before. Prepare for a goodnight’s rest with an effective night routine. Ensure you start getting ready for bed early so you can be in bed at the same time every night to get ideally 7-8 hours a night. Your night time routine might also consist of time to unwind possibly with a book. Avoid using your phone before bed. This can make it harder for your brain to shut down and go to sleep and often with scrolling on social media, hours can pass before you realize how much time has passed.
3. Make a to-do list
Sometimes it’s hard to get up early because you might be overwhelmed with what you have to do today. Make a to-do list for yourself the night before. Be realistic, you can’t get everything done in a day. Spread out your tasks through out your week, focusing on the tasks that are urgent and upcoming. Knowing what you have to tackle for the day can help you feel ready to take it on and get up to get the day started.
4. One fun thing a day
Speaking of to-do lists, sometimes, they are just not that exciting. Sometimes, your tasks can be daunting. Maybe you have some stressful deadlines at work. This might give you more reasons to stay in bed rather than waking up early. However, by making sure you have one fun thing to look forward to each day, you can feel excited for the day ahead. This doesn’t have to consist of a huge plan, and it doesn’t have to involve going out or spending money. Although those things might be nice every so often, your one fun thing a day can be as small as chatting with a friend after work, or watching a new show after dinner. Whatever it is, make time for things that bring you joy in your life daily.
5. Jump out of bed
It’s easy to get stuck in bed because you’re thinking about having to get out of bed. The more you think about it, the more you dread it and the longer you stay in bed. At that point- you’re not even getting more sleep. When you hear your alarm, just hop out of bed. This is definitely easier said than done, but the more you get into the habit of doing this, the easier it’ll become.
Waking up early is a great habit to develop- to have more time in the day, to be more productive and to allow yourself more time to soak up the good moments. Gradually wake up earlier each week to integrate this new habit in your life and notice the differences. It might not be pleasant at first, but it can transform your life!
