Waking up earlier in the mornings helps us to be more productive, more organised and in the long run can make us happier people, but if you've ever tried it then you'll know that sticking to it is much easier said than done.
So, we're going to let you in on a little secret.
The trick to waking up earlier is this:
1. Put your alarm clock out of arm's reach.
Ensuring that your feet have to touch the floor before you can turn off your alarm clock is a great way of helping you to not go straight back to sleep. You'll probably still have to fight the urge to get back into bed, but at least half the battle is won.
2. Gradually wake up earlier and earlier.
Don't decide that you'd like an extra two hours in the morning, set your alarm for two hours earlier and expect to feel fresh and alert in the morning. Our bodies don't like this. If you want to wake up two hours earlier rather keep setting your alarm 15 minutes earlier each day until you reach your target waking time.
3. Switch on the lights once you're awake.
Make an effort to turn on the lights once you're awake. Not only does this make you feel less groggy but it also helps to set your internal clock's day/night cycle, meaning that before you know it you'll be waking up naturally around the same time as your alarm.
4. Keep track of your progress.
It is so easy when lying in bed, the alarm clock blaring next to you, to just turn it off and creep back into your warm bed. It takes a lot of self-control to say no to that inner voice that's asking for just another five minutes under the duvet, which is why we suggest keeping track of your success at waking earlier. Once you've had a few days where you've woken up early and see your progress moving along you will become less likely to want to break the string of successes.
Remember: It takes about two weeks for a repeated behaviour to become a habit. Stick with it when the going is tough and before you know it you'll be one of those people who naturally rises with the sun, happy and ready for the day.
Staff Training is a soft skills training provider. Contact us at (021) 839 3021 or drop us an email.