15 Morning Habits That Are Holding You Back (And What to Do Instead)
Mornings can either set you up for success or leave you scrambling before the day even starts. While we all have our routines, some habits might make us more tired, stressed, or unproductive without realizing it.
Whether you’re a go-getter trying to make the most of your day or just someone who wants mornings to feel a little easier, it’s time to ditch the habits that aren’t serving you. Simple changes can transform your mornings from chaotic to calm, helping you feel more energized and in control.
Hitting Snooze Multiple Times
Those extra five minutes feel tempting, but they make you groggier. Hitting snooze interrupts your sleep cycle, making it harder to wake up feeling refreshed. Instead, set your alarm for when you need to wake up and place it across the room. Getting out of bed immediately gives your body a better chance to start the day on the right foot.
Checking Your Phone First Thing
Scrolling through emails, texts, or social media before leaving bed puts you in reactive mode. It floods your brain with information before you’ve even had a moment to wake up properly. Try waiting at least 30 minutes before reaching for your phone—use that time to stretch, hydrate, or enjoy a quiet moment to yourself. You’ll start your day feeling more in control instead of overwhelmed.
Skipping Breakfast
Running out the door with just coffee in your system? That’s a recipe for an energy crash. A balanced breakfast with protein, healthy fats, and fiber keeps you full and focused throughout the morning. Even something quick like a smoothie, yogurt with granola, or a boiled egg can make a difference.
Drinking Coffee Before Water
Your body is dehydrated after hours of sleep, and coffee first thing can make it worse. Drinking a glass of water before your morning caffeine helps rehydrate you and wake up your digestion. Bonus points if you add lemon for extra hydration and a vitamin C boost.
Eating Too Much Sugar in the Morning
Sugary cereals, pastries, or flavored coffee drinks might taste good, but they cause blood sugar spikes that lead to mid-morning crashes. Swap them out for whole foods that provide steady energy, like oatmeal, eggs, or a smoothie with protein and greens. Your body and brain will thank you.
Skipping Any Kind of Movement
Your body has been still all night; jumping straight into work without movement can leave you feeling sluggish. Just five minutes of stretching, yoga, or a short walk can boost circulation and energy levels. Movement helps you wake up fully and feel more alert throughout the day.
Making Mornings Too Rushed
If your morning feels like a race against the clock, you’re probably starting your day in stress mode. Waking up just 10-15 minutes earlier can help you avoid the morning chaos. Prep things the night before, like your outfit and breakfast, so you have more breathing room.
Not Drinking Enough Water
Many people forget to drink water in the morning, leading to headaches and fatigue. Keeping a water bottle by your bed makes it easier to hydrate as soon as you wake up. If plain water isn’t appealing, herbal tea or fruit-infused water can do the trick.
Ignoring Skincare
Skipping sunscreen, moisturizer, or even washing your face in the morning can lead to dull, dry skin and premature aging. A simple three-step routine—cleanse, moisturize, and apply SPF—keeps your skin protected and glowing. Plus, taking a few minutes for self-care in the morning feels good.
Waking Up in Total Darkness
Your body relies on light cues to regulate its internal clock. Waking up in complete darkness can make getting out of bed harder. Open your curtains or use a sunrise alarm clock to wake up more naturally.
Multitasking Too Much
Juggling breakfast, emails, and getting ready all at once can make mornings chaotic. Instead, focus on one task and move through your routine with intention. You’ll feel less scattered and more in control.
Not Planning Your Day
Starting your morning without a clear idea of what’s ahead can leave you feeling aimless or overwhelmed. Take a few minutes to review your schedule or jot down your top priorities. A little planning helps you feel more prepared and less reactive.
Letting Negative Thoughts Take Over
If your first thoughts in the morning are about stress, worry, or dreading the day, that mindset can stay with you. Instead, try gratitude journaling or simply thinking of one thing you’re looking forward to. A positive start leads to a better day.
Skipping Self-Care
Mornings shouldn’t just be about rushing to the next task. Whether it’s reading for a few minutes, meditating, or enjoying a slow cup of coffee, having a personal ritual helps set a calm and mindful tone for the day.
Relying on Fast Food or Processed Breakfast
Grabbing a packaged granola bar or a drive-thru breakfast might be convenient, but it often lacks the nutrients your body needs to function well. Prepping simple, nutritious options like overnight oats or egg muffins can help you start your day with better fuel.
Related: 15 Clever Hacks To Reduce That Never-Ending Grocery Bill
Managing grocery expenses can be challenging for many households, especially with rising food costs and fluctuating budgets.
However, with some creativity and resourcefulness, you can implement numerous clever hacks to reduce your never-ending grocery bill without sacrificing the quality or variety of your meals.
