Wherever We Land

Or, How I Tried to Outsmart My Circadian Rhythm

I’ve always been a night owl. The quiet hours after midnight were my prime time for creativity, productivity, and, let’s be honest, mindless scrolling. But lately, I’ve been feeling a bit…off. Tired during the day, sluggish in the morning, and generally grumpy. I’ve noticed that all the wise, old folks seem to have this knack for rising with the sun, full of energy and ready to conquer the day. So, I thought, “Why not give it a shot?”

Step 1: The Grand Sleep Schedule Overhaul

I started by setting my alarm for an insane hour – 6 AM, to be exact. Yikes. The first few mornings were a disaster. I hit snooze about a million times, feeling like a zombie crawling out of a tomb. But I persevered, determined to train my body to wake up earlier.

Step 2: The Morning Ritual Experiment

To make mornings more appealing, I crafted a morning ritual. It involved a strong cup of coffee, a quick workout, and a healthy breakfast. The idea was to associate waking up with something positive and energizing.

Step 3: The Sun, My New Best Friend

I started spending more time outdoors in the morning. The sunlight, it turns out, is a powerful tool for regulating your sleep-wake cycle. I’d go for a walk, sit on my balcony, or simply open the curtains and let the sunshine flood my room.

The Verdict: A Work in Progress

While I haven’t fully transformed into a morning person just yet, I’ve definitely made progress. I wake up earlier, feel more energized during the day, and have a better sense of overall well-being. However, there are still those days when I’d rather cuddle with my pillow than face the world.

I’ve learned that becoming a morning person is a journey, not a destination. It takes time, patience, and a willingness to experiment. If you’re considering making the switch, I encourage you to give it a try. Just remember to listen to your body and adjust your routine as needed.

Have you ever tried to become a morning person? What tips and tricks do you recommend?