This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here
I like to plan ahead. If my gas tank in at the halfway mark, I’m planning my next trip to the gas station. I like to do things on my terms. I won’t wait until the gas indicator light comes on and be forced to go out of my way to get gas when it might not be convenient, but have to or else my car wont run. My future self always appreciates my present self getting gas before it’s an emergency. It’s a simple way of being in control of your life.
A huge way to take control of your life is to wake up early. Most of us have obligations in the day — work, school, other responsibilities — with so much going on, it can be hard to get up earlier than necessary. I’ve found, however, that setting an alarm just a little earlier can be all the difference in setting the tone for your day.
How many times have you pressed the snooze button on your alarm for 10 more warm minutes snuggled in bed? You may have gotten 10 more minutes in dreamland, but now you are rushed and running late for school. It can be hard to train your body to wake up earlier, but you will be more prepared and relaxed throughout the day.
If you set your alarm just 15 minutes earlier and get up out of bed, you are telling the day that you are in control. You aren’t waiting around for the alarm to tell you what to do — YOU are choosing to get up earlier and you are in control. Get in the habit of going to bed and waking up at the same time, even when there is no obligation to get up. Your body will appreciate the consistency and you will be more productive.
With your extra 15 minutes in the morning, think of all you can do!
- Yoga/Stretching – Just 15 minutes of stretching can help blood flow and keep your body limber. Any kind of activity in the morning will encourage activity throughout the day.
- Go for a walk – a 15 minute walk can help you wake up, but also be a good way to clear your mind and sort your thoughts.
- Meditation – Focusing on your body and your breathing can be so therapeutic. Meditation helps memory and reduces stress. Spending 15 minutes in the morning to center yourself can help you be more productive throughout the day.
- Make breakfast – hopefully, you are already eating breakfast everyday. But with 15 extra minutes, you can skip the Pop Tart and make yourself some oatmeal and fruit.
Just taking 15 minutes in the morning to take control of your day will set you up for success! Give it a try and your body will thank you.
