Real-Life Routines: Morning and Night Systems That Actually Stick

There was a time when routines felt like just one more thing on my to-do list. I even made checklists to remind myself of what I wanted to do every morning and night. But somewhere along the way, those routines became habits. Now? These routines are non-negotiables, not because I’m perfect, but because I’ve seen how much better I feel when I follow through.

My Morning Routine (aka the only “me time” I get)

Let’s be real—my mornings depend on how much sleep I got, if my kid slept in, or if work is already knocking. That’s why I use what I call the ABC Routine Method. "A" is the full routine. "B" is a lighter version. "C" is the bare minimum. No matter what version I do, I feel like I did something for myself.

Here’s what it usually looks like:

• Grab water and probiotic from my nightstand

• Brush teeth, throw on clothes, make the bed

• If time allows: work out, journal, meditate, walk the dogs, or work on Words to Live By

Sometimes I have an hour, sometimes it’s ten minutes. But this part of the day is sacred—it’s mine, and it helps me feel like I’m showing up for myself before I show up for everyone else. Want to read about how I even got started with a morning routine, by waking up earlier? Check out this post.

My Night Routine (where the magic happens)

I work from home, so the energy of my house matters. If the kitchen is a mess and the couch is a disaster, I carry that mental clutter with me into the next day. So each night, I reset my space by:

• Clearing off the kitchen counters and fluffing the pillows (my dogs live on our couch)

• Tidying up the open areas so I can start tomorrow fresh

• Laying out my workout clothes, because if I don’t, there’s an 80% chance I won’t work out

• Doing my skincare routine (grouped together in my night bin!)

• Time blocking my next day before I fall asleep, even if I don’t check it again, I sleep better knowing the next day is planned out.

  
  

When I used to commute, I picked out five outfits on Sunday. Now, I just need one ready, but that one makes a huge difference. These small steps ground me.

You don’t need a two-hour ritual. You just need something that feels doable and meaningful. These routines give me a sense of peace and control, and I hope they inspire you to build your own.