The Benefits of Waking Up Early and How to Become a Morning Person

Ever since I traded my night owl ways for the life of an early bird, I’ve noticed a bunch of incredible benefits showing up in my everyday life.

And let me tell you, I wouldn’t trade this morning magic for anything.

Now, don’t get me wrong.

If you’re head over heels in love with your late-night lifestyle, by all means, stick with it.

But if you’ve been toying with the idea of embracing the early morning and need a little inspiration, let me share my own transformation with you.

Embracing the Morning Magic: How to Become a Morning Person

The Blissful Hush of Dawn

When you arise in the morning, think of what a precious privilege it is to be alive—to breathe, to think, to enjoy, to love.

Marcus Aurelius

Waking up without the jarring blare of an alarm clock, I savour the peaceful stillness that envelops the morning.

Sure, late nights can be quiet too, but there’s a distinct difference in the state of your mind between those dark hours and the soft light of daybreak.

When you’re up past midnight, chances are you’re caught up in something: binge-watching TV shows, losing yourself in social media, or devouring a gripping novel.

The world outside might be silent, but your mind is abuzz.

But oh, the serenity of morning!

It’s a gentle embrace as your eyes flutter open, welcoming a brand-new day.

I can’t help but feel gratitude wash over me, thanking the universe for gifting me another day to make my mark.

Mastering Your Day

Either you run the day, or the day runs you.

Jim Rohn

Here’s a question to ponder: Are you the boss of your day, or are you letting your day boss you around?

Back when I worked a 9-to-5 job, I’d constantly show up late to the office, my day kicking off in a whirlwind of self-imposed stress.

Slumping into my chair, I’d think: “Why do I keep doing this to myself?”

I couldn’t stand the person I was becoming.

Breaking free from that last-minute mindset took time, but it was worth it.

Now, as an early riser, my days begin with a calm and joyful vibe—no more panicked scrambling.

The first thing I do upon waking is make my bed.

It’s a small victory, but it sets the tone for the rest of the day.

I’m in control.

Living with Purpose

A gift consists not in what is done or given, but in the intention of the giver or doer.

Lucius Annaeus Seneca

Let’s be honest – us former night owls don’t just decide to become early birds on a whim.

There’s always a compelling reason behind the transformation.

In my case, I was desperate to take control of my finances. That burning desire was all the motivation I needed.

So I got up, tackled my first-ever budget, set some ambitious goals, and began tracking my progress.

From that moment on, I committed to living with purpose.

Quality “Me Time” and a Steaming Cup of Coffee or Tea

There is nothing quite like a freshly brewed pot of tea to get you going in the morning.

Phyllis Logan

I adore the feeling of sunlight streaming through the window, gently nudging me awake.

That’s my cue to tear my gaze away from the computer screen and watch the world outside transform from darkness to a soft, glowing daybreak.

Then, it’s back to my favourite things: writing blog posts or devouring a book as I savour my morning coffee.

This is the moment I cherish most in my day.

Tips for Becoming a Morning Person

Find Your Morning Ritual

Choose one thing to do as soon as you get out of bed. 

It could be making your bed, gulping down a glass of water, stretching, doing a set of squats, brushing your teeth, or hopping in the shower.

Incorporate one of these challenges into your morning routine, and you’ll start reprogramming your brain to associate rising with a specific activity.

Stick to this ritual like glue, and you’ll silence that stubborn inner voice before it has the chance to convince you to crawl back under the covers.

Discover Your “Why”

Ask yourself: What’s my “why”?

Is it just because you’ve heard about the advantages of waking up early? Or maybe it’s because you’ve noticed that many successful people are early risers?

Sadly, these reasons won’t cut it.

Trying to imitate others might work temporarily, but it won’t last unless you have a powerful, personal reason.

Jot down your deepest desires—the things you want so badly that you won’t let a change in your sleep pattern stand in your way.

Next, list all the steps you’ll need to take to achieve your big “why.”

Now, you have your action plan, ready to be tackled as you seize control of your day.

Reward Yourself with Delightful Mornings

Turn early mornings into a delight by rewarding yourself with something you love.

Bribe yourself to look forward to the morning!

That way, instead of feeling forced to wake up early, you’ll be genuinely excited to start your day.

Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming an Early Riser

If you’re ready to tackle the challenge of waking up early, here’s a practical step-by-step guide to help you through the initial struggle (and don’t forget #8!).

1. Regularly remind yourself of your “why—whether it’s a slimmer body, an upcoming holiday, your first ebook, launching your blog, becoming debt-free, or something else entirely.

2. Visualise the day when you’ve achieved all your “whys.” Can you imagine the happiness and sense of fulfilment you’ll feel? Hold onto those emotions and carry them with you.

3. Put your alarm clock in another room, forcing you to get out of bed to turn it off.

4. Hit the sack earlier. Instead of watching TV, scrolling through social media, or playing video games, try reading a nonfiction book to help you drift off to sleep.

5. As soon as you’re out of bed, dive into your chosen morning activity (refer to the examples under “Find Your Morning Ritual” if you need inspiration).

6. Remember, it’s only tough in the beginning. A strong “why” will help you push through the initial resistance.

7. Stay focused on the rewards (revisit #2 as often as needed).

8. Once you’ve tasted the benefits of waking up early, you’ll never want to go back.

Final Thoughts: Experience the Transformation and Thrive

As a former night owl, I can’t stress enough how much of a positive impact waking up early has had on my mental and physical health—and consequently, my life.

Give it a shot.

I’m confident you’ll experience all the fantastic benefits I’ve described in this post.

Embrace the morning magic and allow it to transform your life, leading you to newfound success, happiness, and fulfilment.

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2 Comments

  1. Wow, great tips! I have been trying to get up early, followed all the advice on blogs on how to put my phone in the other room, etc. and it just didn’t work for me, I kept falling back asleep after I hit the snooze button of course. Your tip on associating an activity like making my bed definitely sounds great, and I am going to try it first thing tomorrow!

    1. Thanks for kind words, Kate! I admire you for trying a number of tricks to become a morning person as trial and error is an essential part of our personal development journey. I’m sure you’ll find one that works for you eventually and enjoy all the benefits of being a morning person. I wish you all the best!

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