So you snoozed your alarm one too many times and now you’re rushing through the day ten steps behind? Or maybe this describes your Monday to-a-tee.

At least once a week you crash in bed at the end of the day just completely spent after chasing the day that began with a late morning, don’t you?

Ugh. Sorry, friend. I know the feeling. I go through waves of being on top of my game and on the opposite end – sluggish and just not prepared to be awake.

That’s why I made a commitment to myself in mid-September to wake up at 5:15am every single morning.

I’ve made this commitment before and I know that waking up early and investing in myself pays dividends on my day. But come on…who actually rises and shines like no big thing?!

Not me…but I know that the key to getting ahead is slowing down and taking a step back first.

Over time, I’ve developed a simple, but effective, morning routine that gets me out of bed and legitimately awake. By the end of this routine, I’m ready to take on the day. Will you try it with me this week?

Choose a time to wake up that is at least 30 minutes before your kids. Follow these steps (in this order!) first thing tomorrow and let me know how you really feel at the end of the day:

1. LET THE LIGHT IN | Open the shades WIDE open. Let any and all light thru.
2. H20 | Finish the water from your bedside.
3. FRESHEN UP | Splash fresh water on your face and moisturize. Brush those teeth.
4. MAKE THE BED | Shake out all the sheets as you go so they’re light and airy!
5. STRETCH | Just for 5 min. Or 1 min, if that’s all you have.
6. …then, grab your COFFEE (or tea, if that’s your jam) and enjoy it HOT!

This quick 10 minute routine jump starts the day in such a positive way. No matter what comes next, you’ll know you started it off ahead of the game. Once you master this 10 minute morning jump start, you’ll be ready to wake up even earlier to invest in yourself at a much deeper level.

Don’t rush it, though. This basic 10 minute morning routine can make you feel as put together as any.

The key is to simply start. Start small, slow down, one thing at a time!

I can’t wait to hear how you feel after you try this tomorrow!