Before I had kids, I was the type of person who thrived in the early hours. You know, the one who could pull all-nighters cramming for exams and still tackle a full day of classes. But then motherhood hit, and I found myself perpetually exhausted. The tiredness I once knew was a mere whisper compared to the overwhelming fatigue that now felt like a heavy blanket. I thought that once the babies were older, I’d reclaim my mornings. But then came school drop-offs, which meant rising before dawn and somehow managing to whip up a decent breakfast while ensuring the kids didn’t look like they just rolled out of bed. Talk about a rude awakening.
If you find yourself in the same boat, don’t worry! You might not transform into a morning person overnight, but here are some tricks to make those early hours a bit more bearable. Or you could just keep dragging yourself out of bed every day—totally your choice.
1. Prep the Night Before.
I know, I know. After the kids are finally asleep, it’s tempting to unwind with some mindless television or a glass of wine. But taking a little time to pack lunches, lay out clothes, and find matching shoes can save precious minutes in the morning. This way, you can enjoy being awake for a few moments before diving into the chaos.
2. Rise When You Wake Up.
Ever wake up and think, “I can sneak in 15 more minutes”? Spoiler alert: that won’t make you feel any more rested. If you wake up before your alarm, get out of bed! Snap a quick morning selfie of the sunrise and post it with a hashtag like “#morningmotivation” to fool yourself into feeling like a go-getter.
3. Embrace Technology.
Living in the digital age has its perks, like a plethora of sleep apps at your fingertips. From tracking your sleep patterns to gradually waking you up with gentle sounds, the right app can make mornings a tad easier. Just don’t download one that simulates someone grabbing your ankle—unless you want to start your day in a panic!
4. Get Moving.
I know it sounds daunting, but even a little movement can shake off the morning grogginess. Try placing your alarm out of reach so you have to get up to turn it off. Once you’re up, take a moment to breathe deeply and shake off the sleepiness.
5. Identify Your Motivation.
Starting your day thinking about chores isn’t exactly inspiring. Instead, focus on something you’re looking forward to—whether it’s that delicious new coffee creamer or the blissful silence of a solo bathroom break after the kids leave for school. A little motivation can work wonders.
6. Lighten Up!
Waking up in the dark is a drag, and it’s no wonder our bodies resist getting out of bed. Open those curtains or step outside to soak in some natural light. If that’s not an option, just turn on some lamps to help your body wake up.
7. Prioritize Sleep.
If a toddler is kicking you in the face at 3 a.m., it’s tough to get a good night’s rest. But establishing a bedtime routine can help. Put away screens an hour before bed, create a calming atmosphere, and keep your room cool for optimal sleep.
8. Don’t Give In.
It’s so easy to tell yourself just a few more minutes of scrolling on your phone, but that can lead to late nights and painful mornings. Remember how much harder it is to get up when you’re exhausted. It’s not worth it!
9. Hydrate First Thing.
Your body needs hydration after hours of sleep, so start your day with a big glass of water. It’s refreshing and helps wake you up. A splash of cool water on your face can also help you look more human.
10. Get Dressed Right Away.
Once you’re up, put on your clothes—yes, even your shoes! This simple act sends a signal to your brain that it’s time to get moving. Who cares what you wear? It’s all about the mindset, not the fashion statement.
You may never be the type of person who jumps out of bed ready to conquer the day, but you can at least avoid contemplating how to stab those cheerful folks with a fork. And that’s a win in my book!
For more tips on navigating the parenting journey, check out one of our other blog posts on home insemination here. And if you’re interested in learning more about home insemination, visit Make a Mom for expert resources. The CDC also provides valuable information on pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, while mornings can be a challenge for non-morning people, implementing a few simple strategies can help make the early hours a little more manageable. With some prep work and a positive mindset, you can start your day on a better note.