How to Create a Mom Morning Routine That Works (for Real)

I have always—always—been a routine girl. Like, live and die by my routines, and have been that way for as long as I can remember. Give me a plan, a checklist, a predictable flow to my day? I thrive.

But then I became a mom. And suddenly, my beautifully structured routines? Shredded. Obliterated. A distant memory.

I mean, how do you have a “morning routine” when you’re waking up multiple times a night, when mornings are dictated by tiny humans who have zero respect for schedules, and when just getting everyone fed and semi-dressed feels like an Olympic event?

For a while, I fell into survival mode. The thought of creating—let alone implementing—any kind of routine felt laughable. But here’s what I’ve learned: routines are not the enemy of motherhood. They are the thing that saves you.

Not in some rigid, robotic, every-minute-scheduled-to-the-second kind of way (because how miserable does that sound!). But in a these small, intentional rhythms keep me from losing my damn mind kind of way.

And one of the most powerful routines you can have? Your morning routine. Because mornings set the tone for everything that follows. And while the idea of creating one might feel overwhelming (where do I even start?), I promise—it doesn’t have to be complicated. A few small, strategic tweaks to how you start your day can be an absolute game-changer.

So let’s talk about how to create a morning routine that actually works (for real, this time). One that makes your life easier, not harder. One that works with your life—not against it. One that helps you feel more calm, capable, and in control instead of constantly playing catch-up. Because, trust me—if there’s one thing I know, it’s that nailing just a few key routines? Changes everything.

The Power of Routines: Why Every Mom Needs One

A lot of people hear the word routine and immediately think boring, rigid, or suffocating. Like it’s just another thing adding to the mental load. But I like to think of routines as anchors—they don’t bog me down; they keep me steady.

Routines aren’t about adding more to your plate—they’re about making the things that already matter easier to do. They cut through the mental chatter and reduce decision fatigue, so instead of debating whether or not you should squeeze in a quick stretch or slap on some mascara, you just do it—no second-guessing, no wasted energy.

And let’s be real, some of the things that make us feel our best—like meditation, journaling, or even just putting on a fresh outfit—are the easiest to skip when life gets chaotic. Without a solid morning routine, those “nice-to-dos” get pushed aside for the “have-to-dos.” But when you have a routine in place? You know those boxes are getting checked, and you’re setting yourself up to win the day.

So, what’s the best morning routine to really anchor your day and start slaying both your to-do and nice-to-do list first thing in the morning?

What’s the “Best” Morning Routine for Moms? (Spoiler: There Isn’t One)

If you’ve ever gone down the rabbit hole of morning routine content, you know the internet is full of “perfect” step-by-step formulas. Wake up at 5 AM. Meditate for 20 minutes. Journal three pages. Drink warm lemon water. Do a 45-minute workout. Make a protein-packed breakfast.

Sounds amazing… for someone else.

But here’s the thing—copying someone else’s routine won’t magically make it work for you. If your baby wakes up at 5 AM demanding breakfast, an hour of solitude before sunrise isn’t happening. If mornings are your busiest time, squeezing in a 10-step routine will just feel overwhelming.

The key isn’t to force yourself into a “one-size-fits-all” structure. It’s about crafting a routine that aligns with your life, your priorities, and your current season of motherhood.

So instead of asking, “What’s the best morning routine?” try asking yourself:

What do I actually need in the morning to feel my best? Is it movement? A moment of silence? A solid breakfast?
What’s realistic for my current season of life? If you have a newborn, your routine might look different than it did pre-kids (and that’s okay).
Which habits make the biggest difference in my mood, energy, and patience? Start with those.

When you build a routine around your life instead of trying to squeeze your life into someone else’s routine, that’s when the magic happens.

Do I Have to Wake Up Before My Kids?

If you’ve ever looked up morning routines for moms, you’ve probably seen the classic advice: Wake up an hour before your kids to start your day in peace and quiet!

And listen, I get it. The idea of sipping coffee in silence, moving through a slow, intentional morning routine before the chaos begins? Sounds amazing. Truly.

But as I’m currently writing this… that is not happening in my life right now.

I’m pregnant, chasing a toddler around all day, and waking up multiple times a night. That pregnancy exhaustion hits different, and dragging myself out of bed at 5 AM just to check the "good mom morning routine" box? Yeah, no thanks. And honestly, with a newborn coming soon, I don’t see early wake-ups being part of my reality for a while.

Would it be nice to have an hour to myself in the morning? Absolutely. If you can make that happen and it works for your life—go for it. But here’s the truth: you do not have to wake up before your kids to have a great morning routine.

You just have to adjust accordingly.

Tips For Making a Morning Routine Work When You’re Not Up Before Your Kids

If waking up before your kids isn’t in the cards, that doesn’t mean a morning routine is off the table. It just means getting creative with how you fit it in.

For me, that looks like including my toddler in parts of my routine instead of trying to carve out an hour of solitude that doesn’t exist. While I work out, he rides his tricycle next to me. When I do my makeup, he sits on the counter “brushing” his teeth (which mostly means chewing on his toothbrush, but hey, we’re building habits).

Here are some ways to make your morning routine work with your kids instead of waiting for the perfect kid-free moment:

Encourage independent play. Set up a safe play area with toys or books so they can entertain themselves while you check off your morning non-negotiables.
Pop on an educational show. A short, engaging program can buy you a few minutes to get ready, stretch, or journal. No guilt necessary.
Tag team with your partner. If possible, trade off morning responsibilities so you both get a little space to start your day feeling good.
Lower the bar on “perfect.” A morning routine doesn’t have to be elaborate to be effective. Focus on a few small habits that make a difference and ditch the pressure to do it all.

The bottom line? You don’t need a perfectly peaceful, pre-dawn morning to have a routine that works. You just need to find a way to make it work for you, in this season, with the life you have

What Should You Include in Your Morning Routine?

Okay, so we’ve talked about how to fit a morning routine into your life, even if waking up before your kids isn’t an option. But what should actually go in your routine?

Here’s the thing: there’s no one-size-fits-all checklist for the “perfect” morning routine. The goal isn’t to pile on a bunch of things that make your mornings even more overwhelming. It’s about choosing small, intentional actions that help you feel your best.

Think of your morning routine like a toolbox—you get to pick the tools that help you show up as the mom and woman you want to be. Here are some areas to consider when building your version of a morning routine:

Getting Ready for the Day (Yes, It Actually Matters)

Listen, I love a good cozy morning in my favorite oversized sweatshirt. But there’s something about at least semi-getting ready for the day that shifts your whole energy.

I’m not saying you need a full glam session at 7 AM (unless you want to, in which case—do you, queen). But brushing your hair, freshening up, and putting on something that makes you feel good can make a huge difference in how you show up.

Even if it’s just swapping out your sleep sweats for slightly more presentable sweats and tidying up your mom bun—you’ll feel better. And when you feel better, you show up better.

Taking Care of Your Body

Your morning routine is the perfect time to set your body up for success. Here are a few small but impactful ways to do that:

Hydrate first thing. Start your day with water before reaching for coffee (even if coffee is non-negotiable).
Eat a protein-packed breakfast. A balanced meal helps stabilize your energy levels so you’re not running on fumes by mid-morning.
Move your body. If morning workouts are your jam, get it done early—it sets the tone for the day and you don’t have to think about it again. Even a quick stretch or walk can make a difference.

I personally love morning workouts. They wake me up, boost my mood, and ensure I’ve moved my body before the day gets chaotic. But if morning movement doesn’t work for you, no big deal—just do what makes you feel good.

Setting the Tone for the Day

Mornings are powerful because they set the tone for everything that follows. Taking even five minutes to be intentional can make a huge difference in your mood and mindset.

Some ways to do this:

Journal. Brain-dump your thoughts, set an intention, or list what you’re grateful for.
Meditate (even for a minute). A few deep breaths can calm your nervous system and center you before the day begins.
Listen to something uplifting. Play music that energizes you, an inspiring podcast, or an audiobook.
Pray or do a devotional. Connecting with your faith first thing in the morning can bring peace and clarity.
Practice intentional thoughts. If you know mornings tend to get chaotic, pre-decide how you want to handle it. Something like “I can handle whatever comes my way today” or “It’s okay if things don’t go perfectly” can shift your whole perspective.

Practical Things That Set You Up for Success

Morning routines aren’t just about mindset—they’re also about making your life easier. A few simple habits in the morning can keep your day running smoothly instead of feeling like you’re playing catch-up by noon.

Here are some practical things you can do:

Start a load of laundry. You’ll thank yourself later.
Empty the coffee maker after it’s done. Little things like this make life smoother.
Rinse and stack morning dishes. So they’re ready for the dishwasher at night instead of piling up all day.
Do a quick tidy-up. Even just resetting one room can make your space feel less chaotic.
Review your schedule. A quick glance at your to-do list ensures nothing sneaks up on you.

Even just one or two intentional actions in the morning can completely change the trajectory of your day. The key is choosing what makes sense for your life and season of motherhood.

Now that we’ve covered what to include in your morning routine, let’s talk about the mindset shifts that will actually help you stick to it. 👏

Mindset Shifts to Get the Most Out of Your Morning Routine

Having a morning routine isn’t just about what you do—it’s about how you approach it. If you want your routine to actually stick (and, you know, work), the right mindset is everything. Here are some key shifts that will help you follow through and actually enjoy your mornings instead of just going through the motions.

Be Fully Present & Intentional

Your morning routine isn’t just a checklist—it’s about setting the tone for your entire day. If you’re rushing through it like another thing to check off your to-do list, you’re missing out on its real magic.

When you’re in the shower, actually enjoy it. Let the hot water soothe your muscles. Breathe in the scent of your favorite shampoo. When you’re getting ready, don’t just slap on mascara while your mind races through your to-do list—appreciate the small act of taking care of yourself.

If you’re working out, give it your all. Focus on how strong you feel, not just on getting through it. If you’re meditating, really be there. Let yourself soak in the stillness instead of mentally running through what’s next.

Even if it’s just drinking your coffee in peace for two minutes before the chaos starts—be present for it. The more you savor these small moments, the more fulfilling and indulgent (in the best way) your routine will feel.

Expect Some Chaos (Because Life Happens)

Let’s be real—some mornings are going to go sideways.

Kids wake up earlier than expected. Someone spills something sticky everywhere. You oversleep. Your toddler suddenly has so many opinions about which color sippy cup they need right this second.

This is why flexibility is key. Your morning routine isn’t about creating a perfect morning every day—it’s about having anchors in place that help you reset and move forward no matter what.

So, when things do go off the rails, instead of throwing in the towel and deciding your whole day is ruined, try this:

Take a deep breath (seriously, just one can do wonders).
Adjust. Pivot. Do one thing from your routine that you can still fit in.
Let go of the idea that a good morning routine has to look the same every day.

Because some routine, even if it’s not perfect, is better than no routine at all.

Commit Even When It Feels Hard

Here’s the thing: starting anything new feels awkward at first. Whether it’s getting up earlier, eating a healthier breakfast, or keeping your house tidy—it’s going to feel uncomfortable before it feels good.

This is why planning your routine ahead of time is so important. When you sit down to create a routine, you’re using your grown-up brain (aka your prefrontal cortex)—the part of you that knows what’s best for your future self.

But when your alarm goes off, or you’re staring at the workout mat, or you just don’t feel like getting ready? That’s when your toddler brain (aka your survival brain) kicks in and starts pouting:

🥺 But I don’t wanna!

This part of your brain is all about instant gratification and avoiding discomfort. It doesn’t care about future-you—it just wants to stay comfy right now.

So what do you do?

You talk to yourself more than you listen to yourself.

Instead of letting your toddler brain run the show, you intentionally practice thoughts that help you push through the resistance.

If you don’t feel like working out, remind yourself: I don’t have to want to do it—I just have to start.
If you don’t feel like cleaning up, tell yourself: I will thank myself later for doing this now.
If getting ready feels like a chore, reframe it: I feel better when I take care of myself, and I deserve that.

When you expect resistance and have thoughts ready to combat it, you’re far more likely to follow through—because you’re no longer relying on feeling motivated. You’re just doing what you said you’d do.

And that’s where the real magic of consistency happens.

You Don’t Have to Do It All

If your morning routine is stressing you out, it’s not working.

The goal here isn’t to create some Pinterest-perfect, aesthetically pleasing, two-hour-long morning routine. It’s to build something that genuinely supports you and makes your life easier—not something that adds pressure.

If trying to fit in journaling, a workout, a 10-step skincare routine, and meal prepping before 7 AM is overwhelming you, simplify.

Start small. Even one intentional habit in the morning can shift your whole day.
Prioritize what matters most. Pick the top 1-2 things that truly make a difference for you.
Be flexible. Some mornings will be more structured; some will be chaotic. It’s all good.

The point of a morning routine isn’t to make your life harder. It’s to make it better. Keep what works, drop what doesn’t, and trust yourself to adjust as needed.At the end of the day, your morning routine is there to serve you—not the other way around. With the right mindset, you can create one that actually feels good and supports you in showing up as the mom and woman you want to be.

Tips For Creating a Morning Routine That Actually Sticks

Starting a new morning routine is exciting—until you realize how easy it is to fall off track by day three. The key? Start simple, stay flexible, and think about what will set your future self up for success.

Start Small. Trying to overhaul your entire morning overnight is a one-way ticket to burnout. Pick one habit to anchor your routine, then build from there.
Tie New Habits to Something You Already Do. Stack habits onto existing ones to make them stick. Example: Stretch while your coffee brews, journal while your toddler eats breakfast, listen to an audiobook while doing morning dishes.
Hook Your Future Self Up. Think about what tiny actions now will make your day run smoother. Lay out clothes the night before, start a load of laundry first thing, prep breakfast ahead of time—little things add up.
A Great Morning Starts the Night Before. Set your morning up for success by prepping the night before. Have your coffee ready to go, know what you’re wearing, decide on your workout, and plan (or even prep) breakfast. Fewer decisions in the morning = a smoother start.
Be Flexible. Your routine is there to serve you, not stress you out. If one morning goes sideways, adjust and move on.
Commit to Showing Up Imperfectly. Some days will feel effortless, some will be a mess. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s consistency over time.

A good routine isn’t about doing everything—it’s about doing the right things for you.

Troubleshooting: What to Do If Your Morning Routine Isn’t Working

So, you’ve put together a morning routine. You’re trying to stick with it. But something just feels… off. Maybe it’s not clicking the way you hoped, or you’re struggling to be consistent. Before you throw in the towel, let’s talk about how to troubleshoot and pivot without abandoning your progress.

Signs Your Routine Might Need Adjusting

It’s totally normal for a new routine to feel a little awkward at first. But if your morning routine feels like an uphill battle every single day, it might be time to tweak things. Here are a few red flags:

You’re skipping parts of your routine regularly (not because life got in the way, but because you just don’t want to do them).
You constantly feel rushed or overwhelmed instead of grounded and intentional.
Your routine feels forced—like something you have to do rather than something that actually benefits you.
You keep thinking, This is not working for my life right now.

A good morning routine should challenge you (because new habits take effort) but not completely drain you.

How to Pivot Without Abandoning Your Progress

Here’s the thing: you don’t have to scrap everything and start over. Most of the time, a few small adjustments can make all the difference.

Swap what’s not working. If you dread a certain habit, replace it with something more sustainable. Hate journaling? Try voice notes or quick bullet points instead. Can’t fit in a long workout? Do five minutes of stretching instead.
Adjust the timing. Maybe your routine feels rushed because you’re cramming too much in before school drop-off. Shift things around. Maybe your "morning routine" actually starts the night before with some prep work.
Break it into phases. Not every habit has to happen the second you wake up. Maybe movement happens later in the morning. Maybe mindset work happens during naptime. The key is to find a flow that works for your reality.
Simplify, then build. If your routine feels overwhelming, strip it down to the essentials. Master those first, then add more when you’re ready.

A morning routine should feel like a supportive structure—not a punishment. Adjust as needed so it serves you, not the other way around.

Hard vs. Unsustainable: Knowing the Difference

Every new routine is going to feel hard at first. That’s just how habit formation works. You’re rewiring your brain, and your toddler brain (aka your survival brain) is going to throw a fit.

But there’s a difference between something being hard and something being unsustainable.

Hard means:

✔ You don’t feel like doing it, but you know it’s good for you.
✔ You have to push through resistance, but it gets easier over time.
✔ It stretches you outside your comfort zone, but in a way that feels worth it.

Unsustainable means:

❌ You feel overwhelmed and drained every time you do it.
❌ You dread your morning routine instead of looking forward to it.
❌ It doesn’t fit your life at all, no matter how much you try to tweak it.

If something is just hard? Stick with it. The discomfort is part of the process.
If something is unsustainable? Adjust, simplify, and make it work for you.

And Remember: Get Your Hands in Your Life!

Here’s the real secret to making any routine (or any change) work: you have to actually try things.

If you want anything to change—whether it’s your morning habits, your home feeling less chaotic, being more productive, feeling less frazzled—you have to be willing to experiment.

Try things. Adjust. Pivot. Keep what works. Let go of what doesn’t.

Seriously, I cannot say this enough: GET YOUR HANDS IN YOUR LIFE. Nothing changes if you don’t.

If your routine isn’t working, tweak it.
If you’re struggling to be consistent, simplify it.
If life shifts, adjust accordingly.

Routines aren’t about perfection. They’re anchors—tools to help you get things done, free up mental energy, and create the structure that allows you to show up as your best self. They save time, make you more efficient, and give you a sense of control over your day.

So stop overthinking. Stop waiting for the “perfect” routine. Just start.

Because the only way to figure out what works for you… is to get in there and do it.

Ready to Upgrade Your Mornings?

Your morning routine doesn’t have to be complicated or Pinterest-perfect—it just needs to work for you. It’s not about cramming in every productivity hack or waking up at the crack of dawn. It’s about building small, intentional habits that set the tone for the kind of day (and life) you actually want.

Because here’s the thing: routines are the foundation of stepping into THAT mom energy—the version of you who feels confident, calm, and in control. The mom who isn’t constantly scrambling, who has space for the things that make her feel good, and who sets the tone for her household instead of feeling like she’s always playing catch-up.

But before you build a routine that works, you have to know what you actually need.

That’s exactly why I created the THAT Mom Clarity Calculator. It’s designed to help you:
✔️ Get crystal clear on where you’re at right now (so you’re not just throwing routines at the wall and hoping something sticks).
✔️ Map out your personal version of THAT mom—the one who feels energized, intentional, and like she actually has her life together.
✔️ Identify what’s missing and what needs to change so you can create routines that support you, not stress you out.

Because the secret to a great morning routine isn’t just what you do—it’s making sure it’s aligned with the mom you want to be.

So if you’re ready to ditch the morning chaos and step into your best mom-life yet, grab the free THAT Mom Clarity Calculator and let’s make it happen.