As a working mom, mornings can often be the bane of our existence, especially when we have young ones. From getting the kids ready for school to preparing for a day full of accounting work, the morning hours can sometimes seem more like a chaotic race than a peaceful start to the day.
We’ve all been there—rushing through breakfast, hunting for missing shoes, and mentally juggling the day’s to-do list before we’ve even had our first cup of coffee. But what if there was a way to transform this hectic time into a period of calm and control, setting the stage for a successful and productive day?
Picture this – you start your morning feeling refreshed, organized, and ready to tackle whatever comes your way. It might sound like a dream, but with a well-structured morning routine, it’s entirely possible.
The truth is that a morning routine isn’t just about waking up early or checking off tasks; it’s about creating a series of intentional actions that help you start your day on the right foot. It’s about carving out time for yourself, even with the demands of family and work, so you can approach the day with clarity and purpose.
If you haven’t been successful in creating a morning routine, or you’re just not a morning person, you might wonder why a morning routine is so important. After all, isn’t it enough to just get through the morning without any major disasters?
While it’s true that getting everyone out the door on time is an accomplishment in itself, there’s a lot more to be gained from establishing a consistent morning routine.
The good news is that creating a morning routine that works for you doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. It’s about finding what works best for you and your family, and making small, manageable changes that can fit seamlessly into your lifestyle.
Whether you’re a morning person or a night owl, there are ways to tailor your routine to suit your needs and preferences. The key is to start small, be consistent, and give yourself grace as you find what works best for you.
Since I’ve always been a huge proponent of a morning routine, I decided that this would be the perfect topic to discuss while the kids are out of school so that you can begin to lay the groundwork when school rolls around. I want to explain why a structured start to the day can make such a difference, and how you can build a routine that fits your life as a busy, working mom.
By the end of this episode, you’ll have a toolkit of ideas and strategies to help you transform your mornings from chaotic to calm, setting the stage for a more productive and fulfilling day.
This week, I’m going to discuss why you’ll want a morning routine and suggestions for morning routines with examples.
Why you’ll want a morning routine
Creating a morning routine might seem like just another thing to add to your already packed schedule, but the truth is, it can be a game-changer in ways you might not expect. And even if you already have a morning routine, continue listening because I’m going to break down why having a morning routine is so beneficial and dive into the psychology behind it.
First is the benefit of increased productivity. Have you ever noticed how some days you feel like you’re on top of everything, while other days it feels like you’re barely treading water?
The truth is that a structured morning can set the tone for a productive day. When you start your day with a clear plan and some accomplished tasks, it creates momentum.
It’s like giving yourself a head start before the day’s race even begins. Imagine getting some of your essential tasks done early—by the time your workday officially starts, you’ve already crossed off a few things from your list, setting a positive, productive tone for the rest of the day.
The second benefit is reduced stress. As an accountant mom, I’m sure your mornings are often a whirlwind of activities: getting kids ready, making breakfast, and preparing for the workday.
You may have normalized the chaos of getting the kids and yourself out the door, but this chaos can set a stressful tone for the day. Think about it this way – you and your kids are bringing that stress into your day whether you want to or not.
However, a predictable morning routine can bring a sense of calm. Knowing what comes next reduces the frantic rush and helps you start the day feeling more centered and less frazzled.
The bottom line is that a little predictability in the morning can do wonders for the overall stress levels of everyone in your family.
The third benefit is improved mental health. Research shows that taking time in the morning for activities that nurture your mind and body can significantly boost your mental health.
A study published in the journal Psychiatry Research found that regular meditation can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Another study from Harvard Medical School highlighted the mental health benefits of physical activity, noting that even short bursts of exercise can improve mood and cognitive function.
Whether it’s a short meditation, a quick workout, or even just a few quiet moments with your coffee, these small acts of self-care can improve your mood and mental clarity. Starting the day on a positive note helps you handle whatever challenges come your way with a more resilient mindset.
Additionally, a review in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology emphasized that morning routines involving self-care activities contribute to overall well-being and job satisfaction, showing how a positive start to the day can ripple through all aspects of your life.
When my kids were younger I would always get up an hour before them to have quiet time to myself to read and journal. Even today, I’m an early riser because of the impact that that morning routine has had on my life.
Okay, so now I want to explain the psychology behind morning routines. Here’s the thing – humans are creatures of habit. By consistently following a morning routine, you’re building positive habits that become second nature over time.
These habits can range from healthy eating to regular exercise, and once established, they require less conscious effort. Essentially, your routine can automate good behaviors, making it easier to maintain them in the long run.
The next consideration is decision fatigue. The truth is that every decision we make throughout the day drains a bit of our mental energy.
By establishing a morning routine, you eliminate the need to make a series of small decisions each morning. You know exactly what you need to do and in what order.
This reduction in decision-making frees up mental energy, allowing you to focus better on more important tasks later in the day.
Lastly is the psychology behind a sense of control. There’s something incredibly empowering about feeling in control of your day from the moment you wake up.
A morning routine gives you a sense of ownership over your time and actions. Instead of reacting to the demands of the morning, you’re proactively setting the pace.
This psychological comfort of control can boost your confidence and overall sense of well-being.
The bottom line is that a morning routine is not just about getting things done; it’s about setting a positive, productive tone for your entire day. It reduces stress, improves mental health, and provides a structured foundation that helps you navigate your day with more control and less chaos.
Whether you need to start a better morning routine or you already have one, hopefully, by understanding the psychology behind these routines, you can appreciate why they are such a powerful tool for enhancing your daily life.
Suggestions for morning routines with examples
Creating a morning routine doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. It’s all about finding small, manageable habits that work for you and your family.
Here are some practical suggestions to help you get started:
Wake Up Early – setting your alarm 30 minutes earlier than usual can make a world of difference. This extra time can be your peaceful sanctuary before the hustle and bustle of the day begins.
Whether you use it to enjoy a quiet cup of coffee, read a few pages of a book, or simply sit in silence, these moments of calm can set a positive tone for the rest of your day.
As I said before, I would get up an hour before my kids to make sure that I had that transitional time from waking to getting out the door. Because I’ve had this morning routine for so long, I never need to set an alarm because my brain wants to wake up early and enjoy our peaceful time together before I start my day.
Hydrate and Nourish – even if you’re tempted to have caffeine right away, starting your day with a glass of water can kickstart your metabolism and help you feel more awake. I know it can be challenging sometimes, but following it up with a nutritious breakfast to fuel your body is also important.
Think of something simple yet wholesome, like a smoothie packed with fruits and veggies, or overnight oats that you can make the night before. This combination of hydration and nutrition sets you up with the energy you need to tackle the day ahead.
I start every morning with a tall glass of water with lemon juice. I don’t drink any coffee until I’ve finished that water.
Exercise – I know it’s easier said than done, but incorporating some form of physical activity into your morning routine can be incredibly energizing. You don’t need to commit to a lengthy workout—just 10-15 minutes of yoga, a brisk walk, or a quick workout session can boost your mood and wake up your body.
The truth is that exercise releases endorphins, which can help you start the day feeling happy and refreshed.
I’ll admit this is something that is sorely lacking from my morning routine, but I would like to get in the habit of doing some gentle stretching or yoga in the morning. I did it years ago and remember how great I felt throughout the day.
Mindfulness Practices – I know from experience that taking a few minutes for mindfulness can have a profound impact on your mental clarity and emotional well-being. If you’re new to this, try spending 10 minutes meditating, practicing deep breathing, or journaling.
Reflecting on what you’re grateful for or setting intentions for the day can help you cultivate a positive mindset, making it easier to handle whatever comes your way.
I’ve shared this before, but I share my gratitude list via text with a good friend and my husband every morning. I love the habit of thinking about the previous day and looking for the things I’m grateful for, even if the day wasn’t so great.
I promise you, there’s ALWAYS something to be grateful for if you’re willing to look for it.
Plan Your Day – if there’s one thing that makes the biggest difference for my time management coaching clients, it’s getting into the habit of planning your day. The truth is that a little planning can go a long way.
Take a few minutes to review your to-do list and set priorities for the day. Knowing what needs to be done and having a plan can reduce stress and help you stay focused.
Use this time to jot down any important tasks, appointments, or goals. This way, you start your day with a clear direction and purpose.
My main planning time is on Sundays when I lay out my calendar for the week, but every morning I look at the plan for the day ahead, make any necessary adjustments, and then recommit to the plan. That’s what makes it possible for me to have productive, easier days.
Family Time – morning routines aren’t just for you—they can benefit your entire family. If possible, spend some quality time with your kids over breakfast.
It could be as simple as chatting about the day ahead or sharing a laugh. This time together can strengthen your bond and ensure everyone starts the day on a positive note.
When my kids were younger this was difficult to get into the habit of doing, but when we did, it was amazing how much less stressful all of us felt during the day.
Encouraging Kids to Create Their Own Morning Routine – it’s also important to help your kids develop their own morning routines. Encourage them to follow simple steps like making their bed, brushing their teeth, and getting dressed without rushing.
Maybe even involve them in a fun activity, like setting a timer to see how quickly they can complete their morning tasks. Teaching kids to start their day with a routine can help them feel more organized and confident, and it makes mornings smoother for everyone.
When Kelly started school she was a fashionista and it was a huge battle in the morning regarding what she was going to wear that day. We began an evening and morning routine where because she picked out her clothes the night before, we had more time to make her hair pretty.
Personal Grooming – lastly, is taking a few extra minutes for your own personal grooming. This can significantly boost your confidence.
For example, follow a skincare routine that makes you feel good and choose an outfit that you feel comfortable and confident in. Looking after your appearance can have a positive impact on your self-esteem, setting a positive tone for the day.
This is something that is a non-negotiable in my morning routine. I always make sure I have time to take care of my skin, makeup, and hair, even if I’m working from home that day.
Over the years I’ve realized that making the small effort in the morning pays big dividends throughout the day.
Hopefully, I’ve given you some helpful suggestions that can lead to a more productive, less stressful day. Remember, the key is to start small and gradually build your routine in a way that works for you.
I’m going to encourage you to start with one or two changes and build from there. Consistency is key, and over time, these small habits can lead to significant positive changes in your life.
Questions to consider:
Question: What small change can you make to your current morning routine to create a more calm and productive start to your day? Identify a specific area in your morning that could be improved, whether it’s waking up a bit earlier, incorporating a short exercise, or planning your day more effectively.
Question: How can you involve your kids in developing their own morning routines to ensure your mornings are smoother and less stressful? Think about ways to make mornings better for the whole family, including helping your children create routines that foster independence and reduce morning chaos.
Question: What activities can you include in your morning routine to prioritize your mental and physical well-being? Identify activities like meditation, exercise, or a healthy breakfast that can boost your mental and physical health at the start of the day.