How I Created a Morning Routine That Actually Feels Good
The internet is overflown with productive 5am morning routines, all curated toward a more efficient start filled with exercise, nutrition, journaling, etc. But if you're like me, you feel rather stressed out by the never-ending checklist you're supposed to accomplish by 9am to feel your absolute best—and dare you miss one of those things, the whole day is ruined (I’m exaggerating... but you get the point).
I tried it once and immediately knew: NOPE. This is not for me.
While I do love having some time to myself before the day kicks off, it has to be—first and foremost—cozy. I think it has to do with regulating my nervous system, my dopamine levels... but don’t quote me on that. I just notice that if I start my day with intention, the rest of it tends to follow that same energy.
And yes, I have some "staples" in my morning routine. But they’re flexible. They can be switched around, skipped, or replaced—depending on what my mind and body need that day. And you can totally do the same.
So, how did I find my staples? And how am I able to check in and decide what I need each morning?
Because honestly, choosing what you need each day is the real freedom, isn’t it?
Most importantly: Don’t grab your phone. Just start with step 1.
Image courtesy to Jen P.
1. Tune in
When I first started this journey and had no clue what I actually enjoyed in the mornings, I gave myself 5 quiet minutes after waking up. I’d sit up in bed and just breathe. You can call it meditation, visualization, or tapping into your intuition—whatever works for you.
The point is to notice how you feel, what your energy is like, and what you’d truly love to do right now to feel good.
I also liked to visualize my whole day—what’s the vibe, the intention?
2. Collect data
Repeat this for a few mornings to get some "data" on your different energy levels, moods, and preferences. Make a note—mental, physical, or digital—of what comes up for you.
And if you’re like me and have some form of time-blindness, track how long each activity takes.
Also, if you do feel like reaching for your phone after checking in with yourself—maybe to socialize (fellow introverts, I see you) or to scroll Pinterest for inspiration—go for it. It’s not the phone itself that’s the problem. It’s the unintentional habit of grabbing it first thing that messes with your morning.
And that’s it. Very unfancy. Super straightforward. But it works—believe me.
If you need some inspiration, these are my staples, usually in the following order:
Showering
Getting dressed and ready
Having a matcha latte and planning the day
Going for a walk with my puppy
Having breakfast
Have a wonderful, inspiring morning ✨
Image courtesy to Sixteen Miles Out.