To become a morning person, you can adopt several practical strategies and mindset shifts that help reset your internal clock and make waking up early easier and more enjoyable:
Key Steps to Becoming a Morning Person
1. Shift Your Mindset
Change your internal dialogue from "I am not a morning person" to "I am
becoming a morning person." This mental adjustment prepares you to embrace
mornings rather than dread them, making the transition smoother
. 2. Maintain a Consistent Sleep Schedule
Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, including weekends.
Consistency helps regulate your circadian rhythm, making it easier to wake up
early naturally
. 3. Gradually Adjust Your Wake-Up Time
Instead of an abrupt change, shift your bedtime and wake-up time earlier by
about 15 minutes every few days. This gradual adjustment allows your body to
adapt without shock
. 4. Develop a Relaxing Nighttime Routine
Engage in calming activities before bed such as reading, meditating, or light
stretching. Avoid screens and bright lights to help your body wind down and
prepare for sleep
. 5. Avoid Late-Day Caffeine and Naps
Caffeine after mid-afternoon can disrupt your sleep quality. Similarly, avoid
late afternoon or evening naps to ensure you are tired enough to fall asleep
earlier
. 6. Use Natural Light to Reset Your Body Clock
Leave your curtains slightly open to let natural morning light enter your
room. Exposure to bright light in the morning signals your brain to wake up
and helps shift your internal clock earlier
. 7. Create a Morning Routine You Enjoy
Plan activities that motivate you to get out of bed, such as a workout,
meditation, journaling, or a favorite breakfast. A positive morning routine
makes waking up early rewarding rather than a chore
. 8. Avoid the Snooze Button
Getting up immediately when your alarm goes off prevents grogginess and trains
your body to wake up at a set time
. 9. Use an Alarm Strategically
Place your alarm clock across the room so you have to get out of bed to turn
it off. This physical movement helps you wake up fully
. 10. Get Active in the Morning
Exercise or stretch soon after waking to boost alertness and energy levels
Summary
Becoming a morning person involves a combination of mindset shifts, consistent sleep habits, gradual schedule changes, and creating enjoyable morning and evening routines. Exposure to natural light and avoiding stimulants late in the day also play key roles. With patience and persistence—typically over several weeks—you can train your body and mind to embrace mornings as a fresh start rather than a struggle
Waking up with the sunrise is a gift, not a chore. — Headspace