I have never been a morning person, and I would always sleep in the latest time possible before I had to get up. I also never exercised, had time to pray, or prepare for my day before I became an early riser.

Before you decide if becoming an early riser is something you want to give a try, you need to have at least one goal you want to accomplish early in the morning. I had two goals that I wanted to achieve before I started my day. The first goal is that I would run in the morning, and my second goal is that I wanted to become a prayer warrior for the Kingdom of God. I knew neither one of these would happen if I slept as late as possible.

If you have decided what your reason is for becoming an early riser, it is also beneficial to know how your life will change for the better as you do. Knowing your reason and what the benefits are can serve as motivation to begin early rising.

Benefits of early rising that will change your life for the better:

More productive. Studies have shown that when a person gets up early, they are more energetic and take lesser time to do a task. You get more accomplished during the day.

Reduced stress level. When you wake up early you reduce the need to rush to get out the door. You can take your time to get what you need to do before your day begins.

Better sleep quality. Those that get up early also go to bed early. This translates into better sleep quality as your body’s internal clock adapts to your sleep routine, instead of irregular or late night hours which wreak havoc on your body regulatory system.

More Energy. As you get into the routine of rising early and going to bed early you will not only have better sleep but will be more energetic throughout the day.

Able to pray and spend time with God. Starting your day with prayer and God can cause you to begin your day in peace, confidence, and wisdom.

Have time to exercise. Even if you just take a brisk morning walk you can lower your blood pressure, increase your immunity, and decrease stress levels.

Can have time to yourself. How many people do you know are up when it’s dark? You can have peace and calm before your family gets ups, or before your phone and emails start.

Have time to eat a healthy breakfast. Breakfast is the most important meal we can eat. We need the fuel we get from breakfast to help jumpstart your day.

Better organized. You have time to make a schedule and goals for your day. You have the time to plan your day instead of doing just whatever task or activity is at hand.

Better mental health/less risk for depression. Scientific studies have shown that people that wake up early are less prone to depression than those that are night owls.

Quick tips on how you can begin to rise early:

Know the reason you desire to get up early. Have a goal you want to get accomplished.

Set the time you want to get up and work your way to that time by 15-30 increments a day.

Start getting to bed early. No more staying up late or eating late.

Stephanie R. Reck, LMSW, LBT, BCCC
Stephanie Reck, Coaching & Consultation Services
www.stephaniereck.com
[email protected]
Stephanie Reck Coaching & Consultation Services, @2024
Author of, "Disciplining Your Mind 30 Days to a Better You!"