How to Reset Your Morning Routine

There are so many benefits to having a morning routine, as it helps set you up for the rest of the day. A well-crafted morning routine can increase productivity, improve mental and physical well-being, and enhance overall happiness. But depending on what is in your routine, it might also be causing more stress and overwhelm.

This can happen if you try to do too much and simply don’t have time to fit it all in, or if you are waking up too late and constantly rushing to get out the door on time.

The good news is that resetting your morning routine is within your reach. By making a few intentional adjustments, you can reclaim your mornings and set yourself up for success.

Here are some tips for knowing when it is time to rest your morning routine a little, and how to get it done.

Reflect on Your Current Morning Routine

Before you can reset your morning routine or make any changes to it, you need to reflect on your current routine. Take some time to consider what your current morning routine is like.

Think about the activities that energize and motivate you, as well as those that drain your energy or cause stress. This reflection will help you identify areas that require change and guide your reset process.

Write down what time you typically wake up, and whether you hit snooze, get up right away, or wake up naturally. Think about your morning habits, though you can look at this in more detail in the next step.

Get an idea of why you want to reset your morning routine.

List Every Habit (Good and Bad) in Your Current Morning Routine

Now it’s time to really be detailed about the habits and steps in your morning routine. Write down a list of all your morning habits, including ones you do every day, and the ones you just do occasionally. List all the habits, including the “bad” ones.

This might include looking at your phone right away or scrolling social media while still in bed, taking too long at getting ready then rushing, or skipping breakfast. Also include any good habits you want to keep in your routine, like your hygiene, reading, journaling, or meditation.

This reflection is a really important art of resetting your routine.

Determine Your Priorities

Define your priorities for the day and align your morning routine with them. Set specific goals and establish a clear vision of how you want your mornings to unfold. This will give you a sense of purpose and direction, making it easier to structure your routine accordingly.

Reconsider Your Sleep and Wake Times

The first part of actually changing your morning routine is to consider your sleep schedule. Do you need to wake up earlier? Should you go to sleep earlier at night? What is keeping you from going to sleep at night at a good time? What is making it more difficult for you to wake up in the morning? This alone can make a big difference in how your morning routine will change.

Consider waking up earlier to allow for a more relaxed and intentional morning. Starting the day with extra time gives you the freedom to engage in activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. Gradually adjust your wake-up time by setting your alarm clock a few minutes earlier each day until you reach your desired wake-up time.

Move Some Habits to Later in the Day

If your goal in resetting your morning routine is to simplify it so that you can have a slower morning, then removing some habits is essential. This is when you have to prioritize your habits, decide what to keep, and what to move. Some slow mornings could consist of just enjoying your morning, and not doing much other than a little meditation and enjoying a cup of coffee on the patio. You might add some simple habits like reading or writing in a journal.

But your other morning habits can still be done, just not always during this morning routine. There is no reason you can’t meditate, do some yoga, write in your gratitude journal, or go through your skincare routine later in the day.

Consider Staying Unplugged in the Morning

A really important part of resetting our morning routine is removing stressors and distractions, such as notifications on your phone. Try to stay unplugged during the first few minutes of your day if you can. Don’t look at your phone first thing in the morning, and definitely no scrolling on social media. Instead, focus on activities that promote personal growth, such as reading a book, listening to a podcast, or learning something new. This shift will help you start the day on a positive and proactive note.

Engage in Mindfulness and Reflection

Incorporate mindfulness and reflection practices into your morning routine. This might include meditation, journaling, or simply taking a few moments to focus on your breath and set positive intentions for the day. These practices cultivate a calm and centred mindset, enabling you to approach challenges with greater clarity and resilience.

Move Your Body

Physical activity is essential for a healthy morning routine. Engage in exercises that suit your preferences, whether it’s a morning jog, yoga, or a home workout. Moving your body not only boosts your energy levels but also enhances mental focus and overall well-being. Find activities that you enjoy to make it easier to stick with them.

Nourish Your Body

Prioritize a nutritious breakfast to fuel your body and mind. Prepare a balanced meal consisting of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and protein. Avoid sugary and processed foods, as they can lead to energy crashes later in the day. Consider meal prepping or having easy-to-make options available for a hassle-free morning.

Set Daily Intentions and Plan Ahead

Take a few minutes each morning to set intentions for the day and review your schedule. Jot down your tasks, appointments, and priorities to create a roadmap for the day ahead. By having a clear plan, you’ll feel more organized and in control, reducing unnecessary stress and increasing your productivity.

Be Flexible

Remember that resetting your morning routine is an ongoing process. Be flexible and willing to adapt as you discover what works best for you. Allow room for experimentation and adjust your routine accordingly. Embrace the journey of self-discovery and continuous improvement.