The Power of a Morning Routine

How to Start Your Day as a Busy Solo Mom

Hey boo thangs!

As a single mom, the mornings can often feel like a race against the clock. Between getting the kids ready for school, prepping breakfast, and juggling a million things, it can feel like there’s never enough time. But here’s the truth: a well-planned morning routine can change the whole energy of your day.

I know what you’re thinking: “Girl, I don’t have time for a routine!” I get it. But trust me, taking just a few minutes in the morning to prioritize YOU can set the tone for everything that follows. It doesn’t have to be complicated—it’s all about creating small habits that make you feel ready to take on the day.

Here’s how I make it work, and I hope it helps you too!

1. Wake Up Before the Kids (Even If It’s Just 15 Minutes)

This one is key. I know sleep is precious, but those extra 15 minutes in the morning can give you the space to breathe before the chaos begins. Use this time to ground yourself. You can:

• Meditate or pray for a calm and productive day.

• Sip your coffee (in peace, if you can!).

• Stretch or do some quick breathing exercises.

Even these small moments of peace can make a world of difference in how you show up for the day.

2. Hydrate and Fuel Your Body

First things first: Drink some water. You’ve spent hours asleep, and your body is probably dehydrated. Rehydrate and then eat something that gives you energy. I get it—sometimes breakfast feels like a luxury, but it doesn’t have to be elaborate. Even a quick smoothie, a piece of fruit, or some oatmeal will help you stay energized and ready to go.

3. Move Your Body, Even If It’s Just for a Few Minutes

I know it’s tough to fit in a full workout with all the responsibilities on your plate, but trust me—just 5-10 minutes of stretching, yoga, or even dancing in your living room can work wonders. If you have a little more time, try a short workout to get those endorphins flowing. Moving your body helps clear your mind, relieves stress, and boosts your mood for the whole day.

4. Get Your Mind Right

Before you dive into the to-do list, take a few moments to set your intentions for the day. You can:

• Write down 3 things you’re grateful for.

• Set a simple, achievable goal for the day.

• Repeat an affirmation like, “I am capable of handling whatever comes my way today.”

A few minutes of mental prep can turn a frantic morning into a focused, intentional one.

5. Get the Kids Ready (Without Losing Your Cool)

This is the part where it all can go left, right? But here’s a trick that can help: prepare the night before.

• Lay out clothes for both you and the kids.

• Pack lunches or snacks the night before to save time.

• Keep a checklist of morning tasks for everyone, so they know what to expect.

This little bit of prep can make the whole morning smoother and give you more peace of mind.

6. Don’t Forget to Take Care of You

Listen, sis, you matter too. You’re not just a mom—you’re a whole human being. So, as you’re taking care of everyone else, make sure you take care of yourself too. Whether it’s a little time for skincare, a quick morning walk, or just a few minutes of quiet before the world demands your attention, give yourself that grace. You can’t pour from an empty cup.

Final Thoughts: Start Slow and Be Kind to Yourself

This isn’t about perfection, boo thang—it’s about progress. If you can’t get through all of these steps every single day, that’s okay. Start small and build a routine that works for YOU. Some mornings will be more chaotic than others, but as long as you’re setting yourself up for success, you’re already winning.

So, let’s make this year the year we own our mornings—and, in turn, own our days. You got this, mama.

Love and light,

Tiera Nicole