My Morning Routine

I've seen a lot of discussion about morning rituals lately, and I seemed to always think I had mine down to a science.  I've always been a morning person--typically waking up anywhere from 4-5 in the morning.  Lately, since I'm 36 weeks pregnant, it is closer to 5, but I definitely need my time in the morning to myself.  I'm a happier person if I have my quiet time waking up.  I don't enjoy waking up and going right away.

Confession!!!!  I've been in this awful habit of waking up and checking my phone first thing when I get up.  You see I feel like I have to wake up and start working right away since my time is limited and I'm building my business in the pockets of my day.  After listening to several podcasts, and reading in several books, I decided to put an end to this.  I started feeling lost, like I didn't have my own thoughts, and I knew this bad habit had something to do with it.

So here's what I decided to do.  I wake up to my phone alarm, which I know isn't the best, but it is what it is.  I like waking up to messages to myself of my favorite mantra at the time to wake up with a positive thought in my mind.  But that is all I check, my alarm, and then my phone is put down.  First thing I do after I make my cup of coffee and a little snack (typically a rice cake with almond butter--I wake up starving lately!!!!!) I make my list for the day.  This helps me plan my day and see what's priority--I tend to highlight the items that are a MUST for the day.  Then I read a passage in my book of inspiration.  It's about one page, but it puts positive thoughts in my mind and makes me think about the way I respond to the world.  Next I open up my journal and write for 5 minutes.  I do a free write and really just jot down anything that is on my mind at that time.  Let me tell you how much this helps me focus on my goals, me, and who I am.  I am no longer waking up and instantly responding to other people.  I am taking time out for me and my mind to get me going for the day.  After that I am allowing myself to check my phone, but once my schedule changes, this too will change.  My goal is to workout afterwards and continue with a non-reactive state until I have gotten my workout in and showered.   Right now, my time is limited and I am a work in progress.  I allow myself 10 minutes to check my phone, and then I get a quick workout in, which lately have only lasted 20 minutes.

I never knew how much this simple change would affect my mindset in so many ways.  It was definitely difficult to do at first, as I'm just so used to instantly checking my phone.  It gave me time to reflect and focus on me.  I know so many mommy's can relate to never having time for themselves and always feeling rushed to get everything done.  It's a beautiful thing to wake up in the morning, set my intentions for the day, focus, and reflect on what is important that day and in that moment in my life.

What is your morning routine?  Do you check your phone first thing? 

xo,