I will be honest, I am just not a morning person. I really never was. Mornings are tough around here and if you have little ones I am sure they are in your house too! Now, full disclosure, I have NOT mastered the art of a “good” morning but I have definitely found a few ways to rush less, yell less and keep my blood pressure at a reasonable level before 8 AM. More likely than not, your paid job is stressful enough. No one wants to start it off with ten toddler outfit changes, tearful teeth-brushing and a forgotten show-and-tell Princess Belle tiara.
 

1. Set everyone’s clothes out the night before.
Yours, the kids, socks, undies. No fuss, just getting dressed. 

2. Prep and pack bags the night before.
Be ready: diaper bags, purse, backpacks, lunches, sign papers, set out jackets and gloves, have everything laying in its place, just ready to relocate into the car on your way out.

3. Get up before your kids.
I know in an era where everyone is doing too much, we are all trying to maximize sleep time and get every last minute in, but I promise whether you are off to work or home with the kiddos if you get up before your little ones, you will be able to pop that K-Cup in, shower in peace, and set your day up for success. Trust me on this one.

4. Make your bed.
This one seems silly, but I have read this in numerous places. They (whoever “they” are) say the state of your bed is the state of your life and I for many years just never got around to making my bed. Now that I have started, I really feel a difference! Try it out.

5. Put some time in.
After you’ve gotten yourself ready and your kids wake up (happily, hopefully), set aside a few minutes to just snuggle, talk, sit on their bed and say “good morning.” I know you’re thinking there is NO time for this, but these few un-rushed minutes just might make all the difference in BOTH of your mornings.

This post was originally published at christinalaur.blogspot.com

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Christina Lezzo

I'm a wife, mom of 3, critical care RN, and NJ living part-time blogger.

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