Life can throw us some tough curveballs—divorce, major changes, and unexpected challenges that can feel overwhelming and chaotic. Amidst this uncertainty, a simple, consistent morning routine can be a surprisingly powerful tool. While it might seem mundane, having a steady start to your day can bring structure, ease mental clutter, and create a calming sense of normalcy when so much else feels out of control.
A well-established morning routine helps break the day into manageable steps, reducing stress and fostering a sense of control. This daily rhythm doesn’t just organize your morning—it builds resilience, empowers you to face challenges head-on, and acts as an anchor during unpredictable times. Let’s dive deeper into how crafting your morning routine can make a real difference, no matter what life throws your way.
A morning routine offers valuable structure and control that can reduce stress and anxiety, boost productivity, and foster healthy habits. By intentionally shaping the start of your day, you set a positive tone that often carries through every aspect of your life. A predictable routine helps minimize the morning rush, lowering cortisol, the body’s stress hormone, and creating a shield against the day’s challenges. It also improves your mood and emotional resilience, preparing you to face obstacles with calm and clarity. Plus, starting your day with purpose can boost energy levels and sharpen your focus.
Crafting your morning routine is a true investment in yourself. Everyone’s routine looks different, it should reflect your personality and what feels right for you. As you develop your routine, don’t be afraid to make adjustments along the way; finding the perfect fit is a process. What really matters is getting out of bed and starting your day with the intention to care for yourself, so you can face each day with confidence and determination.
During the most painful period of my divorce, getting out of bed felt impossible. I didn’t want to take even a single step forward. But a quiet voice in my mind urged me on, and I made the decision to set my alarm, and not hit snooze, knowing that staying in bed wouldn’t help my situation. When that alarm rang, I forced myself to get up. It wasn’t easy, but for me, and maybe for you, it was a crucial first step toward healing.
Here are a few ideas to help you kick off your morning routine—but remember, we’re all different, so it’s important to find what feels right for you. Whether it’s listening to music, spending time in prayer or devotions, journaling, enjoying a cup of coffee, meditating, taking a walk or doing some exercise, starting with a refreshing shower, stretching, or planning your day with a to-do list—the possibilities are endless. The key is to create a routine that sets a positive tone for your day ahead.
My morning routine has evolved over the years and will likely continue to change. During the dark days of my divorce, my routine was simple but vital: make coffee, spend time in prayer and devotions, then take my dog for a walk. On those walks, I repeated quotes, scriptures, and mantras in my mind—things that helped me brace for the day ahead and survive. Now, more than a decade later, I’m in a much better place and genuinely enjoy my mornings. Sure, I hit the snooze button from time to time, but that’s okay—I’m happy and content, and it no longer disrupts my day like it might have back then. These days, the first thing I do is grab my phone, fire up Spotify with my favorite playlist, and let the music motivate me to get moving. I brew my coffee, spend some time enjoying websites I love, and wrap up my routine by making my to-do list—then I’m ready to take on the day.
I may not know exactly what you’re going through or what the perfect morning routine looks like for you, but the best way to find out is by simply starting. Set your alarm, get up when it rings, and begin your day with something—anything—that brings you joy and is just for you. As you develop this routine, you’ll likely start to enjoy your mornings more, find new motivation through a fresh perspective on life, and realize just how important you are.
God Bless You On This Journey!
KathieyV