Sleep is an essential aspect of self-care.
Getting proper sleep is an absolute requirement for peak performance. All of that said, there are still times in our lives when getting up a bit earlier would be helpful. You would be shocked at how much quieter things are, and how improved your focus is when you get up before everyone else in your household. If you already get enough sleep and want to wake up a bit earlier, try out these nine tips.
1. Go to Sleep Earlier
Let’s start with the obvious. Sleep is vital for both our health and mind, so instead of cutting your sleep down, try going to bed earlier. Of course, your lifestyle will dictate if this is reasonable or not. If possible, though, try going to bed earlier than usual. You might find that you naturally wake up earlier in this scenario.
2. Set an Alarm
Another obvious one, but it’s worth trying the bare minimum first. Each night you go to bed, make sure you set your alarm. While some people have no problem waking up at the same time each morning, others need an alarm’s reliability. And put it across the room so you have to get out of bed to turn it off.
3. Enjoy It
Stop thinking that getting up early is some chore. Embrace it! Get used to the silence, dew on the lawn, and brisk air. Take in a sunrise once in a while. Take in the peace and calm of a sleeping household. Do only what you want during your alone time.
4. Start Slowly
One of the best ways to get used to waking up earlier is to start slowly. Instead of deciding you want to wake up an hour earlier each day — start with five or ten minutes. This way, you can gradually increase the time, and it will seem less overwhelming than doing it all at once.
5. Embrace Joy
Give yourself a great reason to get up each day. This doesn’t have to be a grand gesture either. It could be something simple like your first sip of morning coffee or the smell of bacon cooking. Try to add joyful experiences to your morning routine wherever you can. One of my greatest joys in getting up early is savoring that first cup of coffee, along with a good book, outside on my patio.
6. Use Peer Pressure
Peer pressure isn’t always bad! You can use it to your advantage by asking a friend to help keep you accountable. If you know an early riser, maybe they could give you a morning call to help get you going. It might be someone you want to meet up with as well. A quick coffee or excellent workout first thing in the morning is a great way to wake up/
7. Welcome in the Bright Light
Do you find it easier to wake up in the summer than in the winter? You aren’t alone. Most people find it more challenging to get up when it’s dark out. Invite the light into your routine by opening blinds in the morning. If you are getting up before the sun, consider investing in a wake-up lamp.
8. Make Your Mornings Musical
If you already set an alarm (and you probably should!), consider waking up to music instead. Waking up to one of your favorite tunes is a much more pleasurable experience than an alarm’s bleating. Choosing something upbeat is a beautiful way to add some more energy into your mornings.
9. Manipulate Your Environment
You are the master of your domain. Ensure your bedroom is set up for optimal sleep performance. Choose the lighting, temperature, and even aromas you need to get your best sleep. You can also do things like keeping your alarm far away from the bed or making sure the first beams of the sun hit your face.
ACTIONABLE STEPS
- The logical first step to getting up earlier is to go to bed earlier. Try going to bed 15 minutes earlier, and see if it helps you naturally wake up earlier.
- The next most obvious step is to set your alarm earlier. Focus on a small amount of time (even five to ten minutes is enough) but aim to increase that time each day until you are waking up when you want to.
- Ensure your sleeping environment is set up for success. Make sure the light, temperature, and noise are all taken care of. Ensure devices have their spot far enough away from the bed so you won’t be tempted to use them.
Publisher of Great Living Today, your one-stop source for greater living featuring tips, techniques, and programs in the areas of health & wellness, wealth, time management, business, love, relationships, and happiness. Marty is a life, business, and wellness coach helping his clients to live their best lives.