The Shocking Secret to Waking Up at 5AM—Even If You’re a Hardcore Night Owl!

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My Journey to Becoming a Morning Person

Hi everyone, it’s Lynn! By some miracle, I’ve transformed into a morning person. I’m not just saying that—I’ve been waking up between 5 and 7 a.m. almost every day. It’s not about chasing productivity or consistency for the sake of it; it’s about craving a routine that centers around things that bring me joy. With longer days and warmer weather, I’m motivated to rise early and make time for habits that set a positive tone for my day. Plus, my cat’s persistent purring pretty much ensures I get out of bed! Here’s a glimpse into the routines and habits that keep me embracing those early mornings.

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Morning Rituals That Spark Joy

Mornings are my sacred time. I love having the first few hours to myself to ease into the day. Making my bed and journaling are non-negotiables—they ground me. Some days, I jot down a single paragraph; others, like today, I fill pages processing thoughts from books or life. Breakfast is another cornerstone. I prep sweet potatoes in advance for a quick, fiber-packed meal alongside my first cup of coffee. It’s simple but keeps me fueled.

I also mix in morning workouts when I can, usually enough to feel energized and strong (like being able to lift my carry-on into the overhead bin without help). Walking on a trail at sunrise is a bonus—it’s serene and sets a calm vibe. After getting ready—think cute outfit and makeup—I dive into a Vietnamese lesson on Rosetta Stone. Having just returned from Hanoi, I’m grateful for the foundation it gave me. For example, I learned “vâng” for “yes” in northern Vietnam, which was new to me. Rosetta Stone’s immersive approach, with its true accent voice recognition, makes learning intuitive and flexible. (If you’re curious, they’re offering a lifetime subscription with 60% off for all 25 languages—link in the description.) Thanks, Rosetta Stone, for partnering with me!

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Balancing Work and Life

By 8:30 a.m. (or 9:20 if I’m filming), I’m at my desk. Work varies—today, it’s editing, a meeting with my manager, and creating a thumbnail for a post going live. After a blissful, work-free trip to South Korea and Vietnam, I’m playing catch-up, but I’m loving what I do. Recently, I illustrated an AI-inspired starter pack (despite my dislike for the AI trend) and got featured in the New York Times style column—such a thrill! I also collaborated with my friend Jasmine, shooting her New York Fashion Week outfits for starter packs. Creating with friends and community is what fuels me.

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Meal Prep and Evening Wind-Down

Cooking is my therapy. I missed it while traveling, so now I’m back to meal prepping—like pan-frying garlic-loaded chicken thighs for a few days’ worth of protein. I pair them with different sides to keep things fresh. If cooking’s not your thing, batch-prep meals that store well to save time.

Post-lunch, I switch to tea or matcha to avoid caffeine overload, which helps me sleep better. As a remote worker, it’s easy to fall into the always-on trap from college days. Unlearning that workaholic mindset is tough, but I’m trying. I set boundaries by “clocking out” to watch shows like Abbott Elementary on Thursdays or When Life Gives You Tangerines on Netflix, sometimes while exercising. A recent treat? Pairing homemade compost with vanilla ice cream—pure bliss.

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Listening to My Body and Building Community

I go to bed early—by 9:30 or 10:00 p.m.—to support my 5 or 6 a.m. wake-ups. A few final tips: For those who menstruate, tracking your cycle (I use Google Calendar) is a game-changer. It helps you understand your energy levels and give yourself grace when you’re tired or moody. Consistency isn’t always the goal; it’s about listening to your body. Some days, you might need extra sleep, and that’s okay. Also, wear something cute—it boosts your mood, even if your camera’s off. Most importantly, make time for friends and family. Money comes back, but time and memories don’t. Run errands together, take that dream trip, or just show up for each other.

I’m so grateful for my in-person and online communities. Thanks for joining me on this journey—I hope you found some inspiration for your own routines. See you soon!

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