Chapter 1: Embracing the Morning

For a long time, I considered myself not to be a morning person. However, I realized that perhaps I was simply beginning my days incorrectly.

Photo by bruce mars on Unsplash

While I’m not out jogging at dawn just yet—who knows what the future might hold?—I prioritize getting adequate sleep at night and waking up a bit before my kids.

Historically, my family has never been early risers. My grandparents typically wake around 10 AM and stay up past midnight. We have always been night owls, and for a significant period, I worked late shifts at a restaurant.

However, my routine shifted when I took on a managerial role at a hotel, overseeing the coffee shop. This job marked the beginning of my early mornings, which only intensified once my kids arrived, as they would wake me at the break of dawn.

Despite this change, my mornings lacked a solid structure. When I had to be at work by 6 AM, I would groggily wake up to my alarm at around 5:15 AM, rushing through my shower, coffee, and makeup, often arriving just in time. Over time, the situation worsened, leading to even later starts, but that’s a story for another time.

After welcoming my son, life became a whirlwind. I briefly returned to work, only to find out I was pregnant with my daughter a month after being laid off. With family dramas surrounding my son's birth, I needed to establish a morning routine that would help me stay afloat.

Here are five crucial practices to incorporate into your morning routine:

1. Ideally, I would love to rise by 5 AM, but with kids, 6–6:30 AM is my current reality. If you relate to my situation, you might still be half-asleep while your partner, an early bird, brings you coffee.
2. Begin your day by reading something uplifting or spiritually inspiring.
3. Hydrate with a glass of water.
4. Recite your morning affirmations.
5. Set a positive intention for the day ahead.
6. Watch a motivational video to energize your mindset.

What does this look like in practice?

After hitting snooze on my three alarms, I eventually wake up and reach for my phone. If I remain on my side, I’ll likely drift back to sleep. So, if the night was restful, I sit up a bit and take a sip of water I keep on my nightstand.

I start with my Bible app, which offers easy, thought-provoking readings. Although I don't identify strictly with any religion, I’m spiritually curious and find value in learning about my family’s beliefs. It’s essential to choose something that stimulates big ideas and open thinking.

After another sip of water, I move to my morning affirmations, which I adjust based on what I’m currently navigating. Understanding your obstacles is a significant part of growth, and these affirmations help me reflect on my life’s challenges.

Next, I focus on my intention for the day. This will vary depending on my current situation. I often use a phrase from Gabby Bernstein's A Course in Miracles:

“Where would you have me go? What would you have me do? What would you have me say? And to whom?”

To wrap up my morning routine, I watch a motivational video that encapsulates my aspirations, paired with an inspiring soundtrack. I learned this technique from a mentor who taught courses on manifesting wealth—it’s both enjoyable and effective.

The first video, "5 Morning Habits That Will Change Your Life," dives into essential practices adopted by successful individuals.