Until about a month ago, I was working two jobs from home. Now, I work 40 hours per week outside of the home. I went from getting about nine hours of sleep per night to about six and a half; transitioning from waking up at 10:30 A.M. to 6:45 A.M. can be somewhat tough. Truthfully, I’ve never really been a “morning person,” especially now that we’ve sprung forward. Thanks, daylight savings time.
When I wake up, I tend to sing to my pets, but I have a hard time coping with obstacles and time constraints, prior to drinking my morning cup of coffee. I want to be that person who is all sunshine and rainbows when they hop out of bed. I understand how important for your health adequate sleep is, but I’ve yet to completely tame my night owl ways. So, I’m currently trying to crack the code on how to become an early riser, and I think I’m getting there. If “the early bird gets the worm,” I want to be an early bird. I’m not exactly sure what the worm is supposed to stand for, but, whatever it is, I want it!
1. Baby Steps: I would not recommend shocking your body by randomly beginning to wake up nearly four hours earlier than usual. As with anything else, setting small goals usually makes for a path to progress. If you truly want to (or have to) wake up a lot earlier than you’re used to, set your alarm for a few minutes earlier each night. By easing your body into your new sleeping patterns, the transition will be much less painful, and the snooze button will be much less tempting. Before you know it, you’ll be waking your family up with breakfast in bed!
2. Motivation: Entice yourself with positive reasons to spring out of bed. Become the morning person who truly rises and shines by doing things you love early in the morning. If you’re a fitness freak, start working out before work. You’ll be happier, healthier, and more energized. If you’re a coffee connoisseur, make it a habit to peacefully enjoy your steaming hot cup of joe (or take it on the rocks, as the weather warms up) outside, while reading up on current events.
3. Electronic Nightmares: By now, I’m sure you’ve all heard that those precious electronic devices are detrimental to the quality and quantity of your sleep. For a good night’s rest, drop the tiny screens (not really, but you get what I’m saying). Wind down with a good book, instead!
4. See the Difference: Once you’ve become the morning person you never thought you could be, you’ll notice all of the wonderful things that come along with the early riser gig. Some studies claim that people who wake up earlier tend to be more alert and have better memories. The major difference I’ve experienced is that I feel much more productive, as if there’s more time in the day. Who knew embracing the daylight could be this great?
