The world is fast-paced and for us introverts, we much prefer a calm and slow morning where we quietly sip our tea or coffee and gaze thoughtfully out the window, lost in a daydream (of course). And whilst these mornings are often the best (because of all the daydreaming and quiet moments), we can forget that mornings are actually the perfect time to be productive.
Trust me—I’m not a morning person, and I’m also a mum—which makes it much harder to get time to myself. Relaxing, whilst possible at times, isn’t always easy. But with the right routine, I can get things done (productive and me-time things) and do it all in the comfort of my own space. And the best part is, I can adapt my routine when life gets unpredictable or the introvert mum in me needs to shift her priorities for the day.
So, if you’re looking to be calm and creative but also want to have a serious productivity boost in the mornings, this morning routine for introverts could be your best yet. And you can do it however you like, in whatever order you like.
Why not start tomorrow and see just how focused and productive you can be!
The Perfect, Productive Morning Routine for Introverts
Gently Wake Up
When I say gently wake up, I don’t mean taking ages to get out of bed or just laying there until you lose all motivation to get up. What I mean is not having a blaring alarm going off that jolts you out of bed and makes you rush.
Whenever you need to or want to wake up (because some mornings you might want to start your routine earlier), try an alarm that’s a lot calmer and more gentle to wake up to. I find that a more peaceful sound doesn’t jolt me awake but rather gently brings me out of a dream.
You could also try getting your body clock in the rhythm of waking up with the natural light or a sunrise lamp that gradually brightens your room. I personally haven’t tried a sunrise lamp, but I’ve found that being consistent with when I go to bed and when I wake up helps me to naturally wake up without any alarm at all now.
Write Your To-Do List
To get your day off to a productive start, it’s always a good idea to get your to-do list done and dusted. Because when you take the time to think about and write down what you’ve got to do that day, you’re more likely to get it done.
I like to write a to-do list before I even get ready, have breakfast, or do something else. It’s just worth getting down all the important things before your mind is distracted. (If you’re an introvert mum, I’m sure you can relate!). You could even write your to-do list before you get out of bed!
To add—I also like visualising the things I’m looking forward to doing because it sets a positive tone for the day and makes me feel motivated to get them done.
Say Positive Affirmations
You can nearly always guarantee that you’ll start your morning the right way and set your day up for success if you speak positive affirmations—and I really mean speak them.
Don’t just write your affirmations down. Say them out loud, preferably when looking at yourself in the mirror. (It’s not as corny as it sounds).
If you’re someone who struggles to come up with affirmations, check out my list of quotes and affirmations for introverts. Or look for more online. There’s plenty of them!
Put On Some Calming or Feel-Good Music
I love making music a part of my morning routine. As introverts, music plays a huge role in helping us feel good and getting us into the right mindset. And there’s nothing quite like putting on your favourite playlist to get you motivated or relax your mind.
When I know I need to focus, I put on my favourite soundtracks which really get me in the zone to work or get something done. And you can always guarantee I’ll have a little dance.
Have a Soak in the Bath or a Slow Shower
A productive morning doesn’t mean you have to rush to get ready. For introverts, slowing down is what we need to gather our thoughts and ease into the day—that’s when we can start becoming productive. And a soak in the bath or a daydream in the shower becomes more than just hygiene. It’s a mindful reset before the day begins.
I love a morning bath, and I use the time to reflect, set intentions, or just let my thoughts wander.
Make Your Favourite Beverage and Daydream
Who else feels like they can’t start their morning properly until they’ve had their favourite beverage? My go-to is usually peppermint tea or hot chocolate! And there’s nothing quite like that first sip and that first moment where you sit in your go-to cosy spot, look out the window, and daydream.
I know us introverts love to daydream at any time of day, but there’s something about daydreaming in those quiet, early hours of the morning that just hits differently. It’s that precious chunk of time we get before the hustle and bustle of life, when the world is still slowly waking up.
And when we’re able to get lost in our thoughts, the flow of productivity will follow.
Have a Healthy Breakfast and Journal
Can you think of a better combination than a nice, nourishing breakfast and some quiet journaling? You can fill your stomach and empty your mind! Just don’t feel like you have to have a fancy, Instagram-worthy breakfast for it to be healthy and fulfilling. And don’t feel pressured to write. Simply see what comes to you in the moment.
If you’d prefer, I have a list of journaling prompts for introverts to help you explore that inner depth of yours and let your thoughts flow.
Do Some Reading or Listen to a Podcast
Another great productive activity for introverts is reading. There’s nothing I love more than getting lost in a good book. But even if you’re not the biggest bookworm, try reading something you’re interested in or would like to know more about.
And if you prefer listening rather than reading about something, find some audiobooks, a great podcast, or even watch YouTube videos.
To help get me inspired and motivated to work, I love watching motivational YouTube videos or videos on things I’m learning or want to learn about. It really helps set the tone for a productive day by filling my mind with new ideas and knowledge, or even just a story that sparks something in me.
Do a Mindfulness Activity and Get Your Body Moving
Often the world can be a little too much for us introverts in the morning, but a mindfulness activity truly helps us to feel present and grounded before the noise of the day takes over.
A mindfulness activity doesn’t have to mean sitting cross-legged for an hour in total silence. It can be something super simple that brings you into the moment and connects you to your body and breath. I personally like some simple breathing exercises and stretches.
Then, try adding a little gentle movement to wake up your body. Think of it as telling your muscles, “Hey, let’s get moving, be productive, and do cool things.” Trust me, getting that blood flowing will make you feel energised.
Create a Dedicated Space for Productivity
The best way to stay productive is to create a space where you can be productive. This should be somewhere where you know you’ll get things done without being distracted. And that often means somewhere comfortable, quiet, and free from phones.
Make your space personal, and try to keep it as minimal and clutter-free as possible. We all know a clean space means a clean mind!
But also feel free to switch up your working space if you’re having a day where you can’t quite concentrate or need a change of scenery.
I love working outside in the garden when the weather is nice, but I also won’t say no to a nice, quiet coffee shop if I get the chance.
Start the First Thing On Your To-Do List
Once your mind’s more awake and you feel ready to tackle the day, start the first thing on your to-do list and get it done. Usually, this is the most important task, but it can also be a task which gives you an easy win and a little motivation boost first thing.
Remember, you don’t have to overwhelm yourself or pressure yourself with too many tasks and commitments. Honour your introvert energy by keeping things simple and realistic. And, trust me, you’ll be fine.
No Phones Until Work is Done
The most important rule of all for a productive morning routine—whether you’re an introvert or not—is no phones until the work is done. In fact, keep it completely out of sight. Locked away, even. It will only serve as a distraction and allow you to procrastinate (and I’m definitely guilty of this!).
Why Morning Routines Are Important for Introverts
A morning routine isn’t just helpful; it’s essential for introverts who need time and space to awaken—not just physically, but mentally too.
Unlike extroverts, who have lots of energy and who I imagine to be the type of people who jump straight out of bed and into whatever they need to do—us introverts often like to start the day slowly. And there’s certain things we need to do to feel energised and recharged.
So, when’s the best time to do these things? In the morning!
Still doubtful? Well, the benefits of having a morning routine as an introvert are:
- You get to start the day on your own terms, without feeling like you need to be thrown into the noise.
- It creates calm before the chaos.
- It helps clear your mind and boost your focus.
- You feel better prepared to tackle the day and the things you need to get done.
- It sets you up for success and increases productivity.
- It helps you stay consistent and involves less decision-making so that you can focus on what really matters—deep-thinking and creativity!
Last Thoughts On a Productive Morning Routine for Introverts
I think the thing to remember is that even as introverts, our routines can differ from each other. There might be some parts of this routine that you want to mix up a little or try differently, and if so—go for it. You’ve got to do what’s best for you and what makes you feel good in the morning.
Use your morning routine as a chance to discover what truly makes you feel energised and productive, and know that you don’t have to follow or replicate the fast-paced life and routine of others in order to be successful.
Remember, the most productive day doesn’t start in a rush. It starts slow and intentional. The way you want it to.
