Rise and Shine: How to Become a Morning Person

February 20, 2025

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Mornings are often touted as the secret weapon of highly successful people. From uninterrupted productivity to a sense of calm before the day begins, early risers seem to have an edge. But if you’re not naturally a morning person, don’t worry—becoming one is entirely possible with the right strategies. Here’s how to ease into earlier mornings and make them a joyful part of your day.

Becoming a Morning Person

Understand Your Why

Before you attempt to transform your schedule, ask yourself why you want to become a morning person. Whether it’s for more time to exercise, a moment of peace before the household wakes, or increased productivity, having a clear reason will keep you motivated through the transition. You can even write it down and revisit it often to stay inspired.

I’ve always been a morning person. I love being up before the city wakes and before the sun is up. In fact, I think early mornings are when I’m the happiest, as long as I don’t have to speak to anyone. This is another reason I’ve always been glad to wake up at least one hour before anyone else in my house.

Gradually Adjust Your Schedule

Suddenly forcing yourself to wake up two hours earlier is a recipe for failure. Instead, gradually adjust your bedtime and wake-up time in 15-30-minute increments over a week or two. This gentle shift helps your body’s internal clock adapt without feeling jolted.

Create a Relaxing Evening Routine

The key to waking up earlier starts the night before. Develop a relaxing evening routine that signals to your body it’s time to wind down. This could include:

Turning off screens an hour before bed
Practicing light stretches or yoga
Reading a book
Journaling your thoughts or planning for the next day

Be as consistent as possible with your nighttime routine—your body thrives on routine.

Prioritize Quality Sleep

Becoming a morning person is impossible without good-quality sleep. Aim for 7-9 hours each night and create an environment conducive to rest. This includes:

Darkness: Use blackout curtains or a sleep mask to block light. (Favorite Sleep Mask)
Cool Temperature: Set your bedroom temperature between 60-67°F for optimal comfort.
Minimal Noise: Use white noise machines or earplugs if necessary. (Hatch Restore 3)
Comfortable Bedding: Invest in a supportive mattress and soft, breathable sheets. (My Bedding)

For even more on a good sleep habits, you can read 10 Tips For A Better Night’s Sleep.

Avoid Hitting Snooze

As tempting as it may be, hitting snooze disrupts your sleep cycle and makes waking up even harder. Place your alarm clock across the room to force yourself out of bed, and choose an alarm sound that’s pleasant yet effective. Once you’re up, immediately engage in a simple task like drinking a glass of water to signal to your brain that it’s time to start the day.

Start Your Day with Purpose

Having a morning routine you look forward to can make waking up early more enjoyable. Incorporate activities that energize and inspire you, such as:

Exercise: Even a 10-minute yoga session or brisk walk can boost endorphins.
Mindfulness: Try meditation or deep breathing to set a positive tone for the day.
Healthy Breakfast: Fuel your body with nourishing foods like oatmeal, smoothies, or a tofu scramble.

Limit Late-Night Stimulants

Caffeine, heavy meals, and alcohol can interfere with your ability to fall asleep and stay asleep. Avoid these stimulants at least 4-6 hours before bedtime to ensure restful sleep.

Embrace Morning Light

Exposure to natural light in the morning helps regulate your circadian rhythm, making it easier to wake up early over time. Open your curtains as soon as you wake up or step outside for a few minutes of sunlight to signal to your body that the day has begun.

Stay Consistent

Consistency is key when it comes to becoming a morning person. Stick to your new wake-up time even on weekends to reinforce your body’s internal clock. While sleeping in may be tempting, it can disrupt your progress and make Monday mornings feel even harder.

Overcome Common Obstacles

Transitioning to earlier mornings isn’t always smooth sailing. Here are some tips for common challenges:

Feeling Too Tired: Ensure you’re getting enough sleep and stay hydrated throughout the day.
Tempted to Skip Routine: Set reminders or alarms to keep you on track.
Social Disruptions: Communicate your goals to friends and family so they can support your new schedule.

The Benefits of Being a Morning Person

The rewards of becoming a morning person extend far beyond waking up early. Some benefits include:

Increased Productivity: Mornings often provide uninterrupted time for focus and creativity.
Better Mental Health: Starting the day with a positive routine can reduce stress and boost your mood.
Improved Physical Health: Morning exercise and sunlight exposure support overall well-being.
More Time for Yourself: Enjoy the quiet hours to prioritize personal goals and self-care.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a morning person doesn’t happen overnight, but with small, intentional steps, you can transform your mornings into a productive and enjoyable part of your day. Remember to be patient with yourself and celebrate progress, no matter how small. Your mornings have the potential to set the tone for the rest of your day—why not make them the best they can be?

Xx Monti