I’m a huge advocate for waking up early in the morning, but I know when I first started waking up early; I had no idea what to fill all that time with. Even though every one’s morning will look different, I have a list of 15 productive things you can sort through to create your ideal, early morning routine!
Meditate
If you’re new to meditation, try using guided meditation apps such as Headspace or Waking Up with Sam Harrision (both can be found in App Store)
Journal
Whether that be gratitude journaling, daily journaling, or manifestation journaling; this can be a moment of grounding and reflection to start off your day.
Read
I personally like to read a Self-Help book during these hours because it can be truly motivating and inspiring, but reading could also include your favorite blog (PLUG!) or an informative article from your favorite site.
Listen to a podcast
Podcasts are a great way to get connected to new ideas and perspectives. Find a podcast you love! My personal favorite is The Minimalists Podcast.
Practice a new skill
Take this time to brush up on a skill that you’re interested in; like taking thirty minutes to go on Duolingo to practice a foreign language.
Watch an educational or inspirational video
My personal favorite is watching a video from Tom Bileyu’s channel Impact Theory. In every video he interviews inspirational leaders who share their ideals, philosophies, and motivations.
Work on a hobby
Whether that be writing, editing videos, or drawing; whatever your passion, take this time to hone your craft.
Plan your day
Grab your planner and take this time to get organized; schedule your day, week, or even month.
Workout or do yoga
If heavy impact workouts aren’t your thing, try an intense yoga practice. Both are beneficial and gives you that dopamine hit for the day.
Eat a healthy breakfast
This is my favorite benefit to getting up at 5a.m… you can have a big, energizing breakfast.
Take a walk in nature
This is the perfect time to get connected to Mother Earth and spend time in her presence. Nothing is more calming and peaceful than the fresh morning air and nature.
Cite affirmations
I am creative. I am beautiful. I am courageous. I am whole. Citing mantras in the morning is a great way to get centered and ready for your day. Write them down and cite them every day when you wake up!
Listen to music
This could range from soulful meditative music to pop music. Whatever gets you in that “I’m ready for the day” mood then take the time to turn it on.
Reflect on your goals
This would be a great time to pull out whatever you use to keep a list of your goals and review/reflect. Doing this at the start of your day will help reiterate your “why” and keep you motivated to keep working toward your goals.
Sleep
This may be a shocker, but listening to your body is way more important than forcing yourself to wake up just to tick tasks off your to-do list every morning. Do I hit the stop button on my alarm some mornings? YES! It’s okay. Sometimes your mind and body are exhausted and you need a few more hours of sleep so don’t feel guilty for being human.
Add or remove anything from this list to fit YOU. Everyone’s lifestyle is different; therefore, morning routines will not all look the same.
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