The Struggle is Real... But It Doesn’t Have to Be

Let’s face it, mornings as a mom can feel like a sprint from the moment your feet hit the floor. Between the cries, the demands for snacks, and the inevitable “I don’t want to get dressed” tantrum, we all know that the first few hours after waking up can leave you feeling like you’ve already run a marathon. 🏃‍♀️

But what if you could get a head start on the chaos? What if you could wake up before the little ones and have a moment (or even a whole hour) of peace before the world comes crashing in? 🙏 Sounds like a dream, right?

Well, it’s not impossible. Here’s how to make waking up before your kids a reality—and, dare I say, enjoyable!

Why Waking Up Before Your Kids Makes All the Difference

First off, waking up before your kids isn’t about adding more to your to-do list. It's not about being a “perfect” mom, or ticking off boxes of productivity. It’s about creating a sense of calm and control in your morning, which can set the tone for your entire day. 🌅

Here’s why it matters:

1. You Get “Me Time”

Let’s be real—finding moments for yourself when you have kids is like finding a unicorn. 🦄 But waking up early, even just 15 minutes before they do, can give you a slice of peace before the whirlwind starts. This “me time” is where you can center yourself, breathe, and gather your thoughts without someone pulling on your leg or shouting, “Mommy!” at top volume.

2. You Set the Tone for Your Day

How often do you feel like the day is running you instead of the other way around? Waking up before your kids lets you take control of your morning. You can start with a cup of coffee, a few minutes of meditation, or even just time to think before diving into the chaos. It’s like setting the stage for a calmer, more intentional day. 🎯

3. You’ll Be More Present (Seriously)

When you take a little time for yourself before your kids wake up, you're more likely to be present when they do. You’re not operating on pure survival mode; instead, you’re coming from a place of balance. You’ve had time to mentally prepare for the madness that comes with your tiny humans, and you can approach them with more patience and understanding. 🤗

How to Wake Up Before Your Kids (And Actually Enjoy It)

1. Set a Realistic Wake-Up Time

Waking up at 5 a.m. just because you read it somewhere on the internet isn’t the key to success here. You need to set a wake-up time that feels achievable. If your kids typically wake up at 7 a.m., try setting your alarm for 6:30 or 6:45. Giving yourself 15-30 minutes will make a huge difference. ⏰

2. Make Your Bed First Thing

It may sound small, but making your bed as soon as you wake up can set a positive tone. It’s like telling your brain, “Okay, let’s start the day off right.” Plus, when your kids do wake up and make a mess of the house, at least your bed will be nice and tidy. 🛏️

3. Have a Simple Morning Ritual

It doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether it’s a cup of coffee, a few stretches, or even 5 minutes of quiet journaling, find something that helps you center yourself. The idea is to do something for YOU, before diving into the “mom mode.” ☕📝

4. Go to Bed Earlier

This one’s the tough love: you’ll need to go to bed earlier if you want to wake up earlier. Set a bedtime routine that allows for enough sleep so you’re not hitting snooze on your alarm every morning. Trust me, it’s worth it. 😴

5. Start Slow, Be Kind to Yourself

This isn’t about being perfect—this is about progress. If you don’t wake up early the first few times, don’t beat yourself up. The goal is to create a habit, and it takes time. Be patient with yourself, and don’t feel guilty for hitting snooze once in a while. You’ve got this. 💪

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Quiet Before the Storm

Waking up before your kids isn’t about being superhuman. It’s about giving yourself space to breathe, reflect, and be the best version of yourself before you step into the chaos. By carving out those precious few minutes, you’re setting yourself up for a more grounded, present, and intentional day with your little ones. And who knows? You might even start to enjoy the calm before the storm. 🌤️

So, are you ready to wake up just a little earlier and embrace the peace that comes with it? 🙌