The 'No-Snooze' Rule: Wake Up Right Away to Improve Your Morning

Old-school bedside alarm clocks were notorious for their two metal bells, which created such a loud racket that you couldn't fall asleep once the alarm went off.

Then came electric alarm clocks featuring snooze buttons, which allowed you to snag an extra 3 to 5 minutes of rest before the alarm blared again.

As time passed, alarm clocks evolved further, making waking up even more challenging. You could pick your preferred alarm sound or wake up to your favorite radio station instead of an irritating ring. While these advancements offered convenience, they also made it far too easy to stay in bed and enjoy the experience of your alarm going off.

Nowadays, most people rely on their phones for morning alarms. Unfortunately, the snooze button remains tempting, just a tap away from your phone's screen. If you find yourself hitting snooze regularly but want to get up quickly and start your day feeling refreshed rather than groggy, consider trying the no-snooze rule.

The No-Snooze Countdown

Do you struggle to get out of bed in the morning? Even after hitting snooze on your alarm, do you find yourself lying there, staring at the ceiling, and convincing yourself that just a few more minutes of sleep won’t hurt? You’re not alone. Many of us realize that once we finally get up and start moving, we’ll feel fine—yet taking that first step is often the most challenging hurdle to overcome.

If this resonates with you, consider trying the countdown technique.

When your alarm rings, count backward from five.

Here’s how to do it:

• Start by gently opening your eyes and taking a moment to relax. While lying on your back, take a deep breath through your nose, allowing your diaphragm and stomach to expand fully.

• Hold your breath for a count of two, then exhale slowly through your mouth. Purse your lips to create a swooshing sound as you breathe out. 

• Keeping your eyes open, begin counting down from 5 to 0. Say each number aloud while making a positive statement in your mind after each count. It could go like this:

Out loud: "5." Silently: "I’m getting out of bed."

Out loud: "4." Silently: "I can’t wait to rise."

Out loud: "3." Silently: "My arms and legs are ready to move."

Out loud: "2." Silently: "My rest is complete."

Out loud: "1." Silently: "I’m getting up now." 

As you count down, your voice grows slightly louder with each number. When you reach the final count, instead of saying "zero," exclaim "NOW!" or "UP!" with enthusiasm, then get out of bed immediately.

By the time you reach two or three, you can say, "I’m putting my feet on the floor," as you swing your legs over the side of the bed and plant your feet firmly on the ground. Feel free to create positive affirmations to fit your morning routine. We offer a library filled with affirmations you can use daily in our STORE & A. SUITE membership, so we have you covered.

It’s essential to gradually increase your volume and enthusiasm with each number. When you shout “NOW!” or “UP!” instead of counting down to zero, infuse your voice with energy and excitement, envisioning it as the launch of a fantastic day. If you’re worried about waking others in your home, you can perform this routine quietly, but expressing your intention out loud often makes it more impactful.

I use a clap with my hands. As soon as I want to spring up, I clap my hands together and jolt myself out of bed. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

This tried-and-true method will help you eliminate the snooze button for good. You’ll wake up feeling energized, focused, and ready to tackle the day ahead with a positive mindset.

Waking up promptly enhances your morning by boosting your energy and concentration, setting a productive tone for everything that follows.

Here are a few other things to help you:

• try setting your clock a few minutes ahead of the actual time

• of course, you could try getting to bed/sleep an hour or more earlier

• don’t eat or drink any stimulants two hours before bed-time

• put your devices further away from your bed so that you’d have to get out of bed to reach them

• pre-plan your routine, wardrobe, and your week, giving yourself a reason to get out of bed

Below is one of my weekday routines that may inspire you to create a new one.

Monday Morning

5 am - Wakeup (light stretches, prayer, meditation) Hydrate + Vitamins

6 am - Read devotional (coffee & breakfast) + check email/15-minute workout (usually yoga)

7 am - Beauty Routine; Get ready with me!

8 am - Grab Planner/Phone (review agenda; check family schedules w/Cozi app + Waze + Weather )

9 am - In the Office by 9:15 am (tech-on, team roll call)

{9:30 - 1: 30pm} Client, student + member sessions, team mtg. LIVE Stream, record content;

• Lunch break w/ phone calls, voicemail check

• 15-minute walk

• 5-minute family check-in during lunch

{2 pm - 4:30 pm} - Media recordings, Podcast Ep. Content, Collabs, Business development meetings

5 pm - 6:30 pm - “End Day” (charge tech) tidy office; commute/dinner pickup or prep/family check-in

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