Very early in my alcohol-free journey I discovered that having a daily routine was a powerful way to keep myself on track in my sobriety and in my life. The more I leaned into having a routine and started to enjoy its benefits, the more I began to crave it. Developing—and sticking to—a routine helps me thrive, keeps my head clear, moves me toward achieving my goals, and keeps me emotionally and physically healthy. Over time my routine has become a daily non-negotiable. I am a true believer. My routine—particularly in the early mornings—keeps me grounded and sets me up for success and I, in turn, protect it and make space for it each day.

“Morning routines are the ‘in’ thing in health and wellness right now…and not without reason,” writes Alicia Gilbert, founder of the blog Soberish. “For [many of us, early sobriety can be a] confusing, frustrating time…. Morning routines keep you busy and focused on making positive changes and help you heal from the damage alcohol has done to your mental and physical well-being.”

Since putting my wine glass down for good more than five and a half years ago, I traded hangovers for early mornings and haven’t looked back since. According to James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, we are each allotted about 25,000 mornings in adulthood. The way I see it, I already wasted at least 1,825 mornings—five years’ worth—recovering from drinking the night before. I don’t plan on wasting one more.

The first few minutes and hours after I wake up set the tone for my day (and often the whole week). In the early morning hours, my creative energy is high and my head is clear. I find this to be the best time to be productive. By engaging in consistent morning practices, I’ve trained my brain to anticipate and embrace the day’s challenges with resilience and a sober mindset. I know that I could not accomplish all the things I do each day without a structured and disciplined morning routine.

Since I first developed my morning routine I’ve noticed many positive changes:

• I start my day with intention.
• I am more focused and motivated.
• I have increased energy, productivity, and positivity.
• I avoid “decision fatigue.”
• I have much less stress.
• I enjoy increased overall physical, emotional, and mental health.
• I feel like I have more control of my life.
• I experience more effective time management.
• Much of my work is done before anyone else in the house gets up.

So what does this routine look like? I share it here to inspire you to create a routine of your own that meets your individual needs.