Simple Morning Routine for Success

Starting your day on a positive note really can set the tone for everything that follows. Whether you’re the type who jumps out of bed, ready to go, or someone who needs a bit of a nudge (and maybe a strong coffee) to get moving, a morning routine is your chance to lay the groundwork for a good day.

Here are some simple steps to get started:

Hydration: After hours of sleep, your body needs water to rehydrate. Instead of reaching for coffee first, start with a glass of water. Try adding a squeeze of lemon, a pinch of pink salt, or a splash of apple cider vinegar for an added boost to digestion.

Movement: Waking up your body with some gentle movement can make all the difference. It doesn’t have to be a full workout—a quick stretch, a brisk walk, or a few light weights are a great start.

Mindfulness: Give yourself a few minutes to focus your mind. You could read, journal, meditate, or check your planner to get a sense of what’s ahead.

If mornings aren’t your thing, establishing a routine can feel like a tall order. But you don’t need to become a “morning person” overnight to make mornings a bit smoother. Here are some ways to troubleshoot common challenges and build a routine that works for you:

1. Keep It Simple  

  Challenge: Trying to do too much in the morning can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re still waking up.

  Solution: Start with one tiny step—maybe just a glass of water or a quick stretch. Over time, you can add more, but give yourself permission to keep it minimal if that’s what makes it doable.

2. Prep the Night Before

   Challenge: Feeling rushed or dreading decisions first thing.

   Solution: Do a little evening prep so your morning feels smoother. Set out your water, lay out clothes, or put a journal or book by your bed if you want to read. Even small preparations can take away some of the early-morning resistance.

3. Wake Up Gently 

   Challenge: The shock of a loud alarm or harsh lighting makes mornings feel even tougher.

   Solution: Try a softer wake-up method, like a sunrise alarm that gradually brightens the room, or set your alarm to calming music. Giving yourself a softer start may help make mornings less daunting.

4. Embrace Flexibility  

   Challenge: The pressure to stick to a strict routine can feel unrealistic on busy days.

   Solution: Allow some flexibility. If you’re pressed for time, just stick to one core activity. Having a backup version of your routine (like a 2-minute “essentials only” version) keeps you on track without stress.

5. Find What Feels Good to You  

   Challenge: Traditional morning routines don’t feel motivating.

   Solution: Choose activities that actually make you feel good. If journaling isn’t your thing, try light reading or a quick walk. The routine should be something you enjoy and look forward to.

Small adjustments, like these, can help even the most night-loving people ease into mornings with less resistance and make the routine feel achievable and motivating.

If you’ve already got a morning routine down and want to level it up, there are some small but impactful ways to bring even more energy, focus, and enjoyment into your mornings.

1. Set an Intention for the Day

   Adding a mindful moment to set an intention can give your routine new depth. Consider a simple prompt like, “What’s my top priority today?” or “How do I want to feel?” It can align your day with purpose and make each part of your routine feel even more connected to your goals.

2. Try Habit Stacking

  Building on your existing habits, habit stacking (a concept coined by James Clear in his book  Atomic Habits) can add layers without extra time. For example, if you already drink water first thing, pair it with a few deep breaths or a quick stretch. Stacking small, meaningful habits onto each other can deepen the impact of what you’re already doing.

3. Switch Up Your Movement

  If your body’s used to the same stretches or exercise every morning, try adding a new form of movement, like yoga, resistance bands, or a short dance session. It’s a great way to wake up new muscles and prevent burnout from doing the same thing every day.

4. Incorporate a Creative or Learning Element

  Try adding a 5–10 minute activity that fuels your mind or creativity. You could read a few pages of a book, journal a thought for the day, sketch, or listen to an inspiring podcast. Engaging your mind creatively can boost focus and motivation for the rest of the day.

5. Reflect on the Day Ahead

  If you want to feel more organized, take a moment to visualize your schedule or mentally run through your to-do list. This simple practice can help you prioritize and feel calm, focused, and ready for whatever’s ahead.

Upping your routine doesn’t mean making it longer—it’s about small adjustments that bring fresh energy, keep you motivated, and make mornings feel even more fulfilling.

If you’re new to morning routines, start with one small action. Maybe just set out 8oz of water by your bedside so it’s ready when you wake up. Or, set out your walking shoes and clothes the night before. Tools like habit trackers or accountability partners can help keep you motivated. Once you’re comfortable, slowly add in new habits and start stacking them together. This is where one small habit builds on another, creating a foundation for long-term success. And remember, no routine has to be perfect—give yourself some grace and just keep building!

Ready to learn more? Be sure to grab your Six Small Shifts Checklist to help you get started on your wellness journey.

Wishing you peace, strength and love,  

Maryann