List the most essential tasks to prioritize (e. g. shower, coffee/breakfast, waking others, preparing lunches, packing bags). Add on more tasks if you can fit them in (e. g. read email or newspaper, walk the dog, wash dishes, do laundry, make the bed). Consider your own unique rhythm and design accordingly—are you a slow mover (needing extra time) or really efficient in the morning (needing less time or fitting more tasks into less time)? Aim high, then delete the lower priority tasks if necessary.

6:00–6:30: Wake up, shower, make your bed, and prepare coffee/tea/etc. 6:30–6:45: Wake children or others and make sure they get up. 6:45–7:15: Fix children’s breakfast, pack everyone’s lunches. 7:15–7:30: Eat your breakfast while children dress and get ready. 7:30–7:45: Walk the children to car/bus. 7:45–8:15: Take children to school. 8:15–9:00: Drive yourself/others to work.

Decide on how many hours of sleep you need. Schedule enough time in the morning so you don’t have to rush to get ready. Stick with this sleep schedule, even on weekends—this will help you stay on track. Don’t sleep with music or other noise (TV, YouTube, etc. ) on, as they can disrupt a sound sleep. Avoid electronic devices at least 30 minutes before bed—the light can negatively affect your sleep [1] X Trustworthy Source Harvard Medical School Harvard Medical School’s Educational Site for the Public Go to source and the brain stimulation from the devices make it hard to “power down” your brain. [2] X Research source

You don’t necessarily need to start a 2-hour morning routine right away. Start by waking up 10 or 20 minutes earlier than normal and work your way up. [4] X Expert Source Sandra PossingLife Coach Expert Interview. 13 August 2020. Begin your routine a few days a week and then start adding days, including weekends. Keep track of what works and what doesn’t—and adjust your tasks accordingly. Find distractions or other obstacles to your routine and avoid them.

Make note of any appointments or meetings—on paper, smartphone, or other device. Write a list of any important reminders such as errands or general things that need to get done.

Pick out your clothes and shoes. Fill the kettle or set up the coffee machine with timer. Cook and pack any food you need to bring with you. Pack your bag with everything you normally carry along. Lay out your car keys, bus pass, or whatever essential items you need for getting to your destination. Shower before bed to save time in the morning.

Choose the time, duration, and place for your exercise. Touch base with any friend(s) who may go with you to confirm the date. Pack your gym bag or other necessities the night before.

Set the alarm on your music device or TV to come on when you wake up. Stash your electronic devices where you won’t be tempted to use them right upon waking up. Leave your bedroom as soon as you wake up so you’re not tempted to go back to bed.

Make your bed right away. Do chores that were left from last night such as emptying the dish rack or picking up clothes. Stretch for several minutes to ease into more activity. Practice a few minutes of calisthenics such as jumping jacks or pushups.

Arrange a quiet space for your quiet time, away from people, pets, and electronics. Don’t let anyone or anything interrupt your special quiet time.

Plan your breakfast the night before if it makes it easier for you to eat in the morning. Start with a glass of water, which has multiple health benefits. [8] X Research source Choose healthy and nutritious foods and drinks to provide the best fuel for your day—these include fruits, dairy products, protein (eggs, meat, soy), and grains.

Reevaluate the obstacles and distractions that consistently get in the way. Recognize the consequences of not keeping your routine (frustration, tardiness) to kickstart your motivation.

Have your favorite morning beverage and make it extra special on certain days, whether that be high-quality coffee or a homemade smoothie. Schedule an extra time slot for quiet and solitude if that’s your favorite part of a morning routine. Use motivational notes or messages to remind you of your progress. Consider the benefits of your routine and how good they make you feel.

Go to sleep earlier if sleep loss is making you tired. Make extra effort to spend time with anyone who may feel neglected as a result of your morning routine.

Keep track of when you started so you can see your progress. Log your routine daily, weekly, and monthly.

Ask them for their best tips on keeping on track. Touch base with your buddy every week about your mutual progress and cheer each other on.