Increase Energy Levels & Stop Morning Fatigue in Its Tracks

Waking up to the soothing sound of birds chirping, peacefully enjoying your breakfast cereal as you plan the day ahead while reading an empowering quote to inspire you for the rest of the day.

Parents, let’s face it: this scenario sounds more like science-fiction than your typical Tuesday morning.

A sound does wake you up, but it’s the kids, already in your room, asking to be fed and it’s not even 6am yet. You wake up before the sun has risen but somehow, you’re still late and breakfast turns into a quick grab-and-go affair. As for planning the day ahead, forget it. You’re probably thanking the gods you didn’t put your clothes on inside out again.

Being a parent is a wonderful thing, but it’s not exactly the most glamorous life. You have to wake up and wake up fast so you can do all that good parenting stuff and still have time to get yourself ready. That’s why we put together a few tips to increase your energy levels so you can take on whatever mornings throw at you.

If you’re a goal-driven parent: create a to-do list

You’re tenacious and used to getting stuff done. So why do some mornings feel like you’re just spinning your wheels and not getting anywhere?

There’s nothing like the good old pen and paper to help you get all your ducks in a row in the morning. Write down everything you need to do: grab coffee, take the keys, don’t forget the toddler in the cot. You can even start with ‘wake up’ and tick it off straight away - that’s you already accomplishing goals and you’re not even out of the bed yet. What a great feeling and a good way to boost your energy in the morning!

To make sure you’re not forgetting anything important in the morning chaos, put your action list together the night before. Less chances that junior’s bee project gets left behind on the kitchen table instead of ending up in his backpack. All that drama has been avoided!

If you’re a working-from-home parent: morning workout

The secret to rising and shining is to get moving. Squeezing in a workout seems difficult when you’ve got to spend your time between Zoom calls and your kid’s maths homework. But exercise is such a good way to boost your energy! Do a few stretches as you get the kids dressed. Throw in a set of jumping jacks while preparing the breakfast cereals. And go for a quick walk around the neighbourhood to kick-start the day. If you’re envisioning the Rocky training montage already, that’s perfect! You need the stamina to help you go toe to toe with the hectic morning rush. Plus, kids can join in on your exercise routine too.

If you’re an always-busy parent: take power naps

Parenting is not the easiest gig in the world when you’ve got a couple of little ones bouncing around the house keeping you busy from the moment they wake up till long after they go to sleep. By the time you pick up all the loose Legos and save their favourite toy from behind the couch, you’re exhausted and ready to call it a day. Need to recharge? Try increasing your energy with strategic power naps, even if you only have 20 minutes to catch some zzz’s. Your body will feel re-energised and ready to take on whatever comes next, cranky toddlers or tight work deadlines.

If you’re an outgoing parent: create a pump-up morning playlist

Put on the tunes and you won’t hear the phrase ‘5 more minutes please’ ever again. Choose upbeat songs that pack enough punch to make everyone feel uncrushable as they get out the door.

Music is the best way to boost your energy especially if you’re going for those happy beats that instantly transport you to summer time even when it’s still far, far away. We’re talking those songs that make you want to pack your bags and head for a sunny island straight away.

Or why not get the family together and create a morning playlist? Kids can add their favourite tunes too. So, what if you end up singing Frozen’s ‘Let It Go’ all the way to work?

Whatever strategy works best to get things done in the morning and everyone out the door, there’s one last tip for an awesome start of the day: don’t miss breakfast. It’s the fuel that helps you get your day started. So, if you need a bit of inspiration to stop skipping breakfast, read our handy article next and give Shreddies a go when mornings get tough.