My alarm goes off at 4:30 every morning and instead of dreading the harsh sound of a horn, I welcome it. Early mornings have changed my motherhood. I have become a more intentional mother since carving time out for myself and I love the way its added value to my life.
I was so done with waking up when my kids woke up. Instead of easing into the morning, I was launched into demands for water, snacks, breakfast, refereeing the kids, tugs to get out of bed. I felt suffocated and quickly became burnt out. There was no time during the day to sneak away and if there was, I was exhausted.
My mornings usually start in this way: Wake up, head to the gym, put on some tea or coffee when I get home, read my Bible, listen to a sermon, start working on my biz and then usually by the time I’ve finished up, my little nursling comes waddling into the living room, half awake, looking for the boob.
When both kids are up, I have finished major accomplishments without feeling guilty. Cause, I am the WORST with mom guilting myself. I can dedicate more time to being present with my kids rather than feeling like I need to work or have alone time, or my mind just elsewhere. Like magic, early mornings make my day feel more proactive and less reactive.
I know waking up early doesn’t sound ideal and honestly, at first it is absolute death (truth). But after that first week your body gets into a rhythm and your soul will long for the quiet, slow mornings. Another benefit of early mornings is a clear mind something you cannot truly find throughout the day or by the end of the day.
Mama’s try it, seriously just dive in, you’re worth taking intentional time for yourselves. Read the Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod. Place your phone across the room so you have to get up and while you’re at it, leave a glass of water and chug it first thing. Doing small things can make a huge impact to your life, your marriage, and your children’s lives.