The Morning Routine That Grounds Me in the Chaos of Country Life

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Let’s be honest — living in the country doesn’t mean life is slow. It means there’s always something to do. Whether it’s managing our Airbnb, finishing a custom metal order, hauling materials with HLM, or wrangling kids and chickens, the day starts fast.

That’s why I’ve had to create a morning routine that helps me stay focused and ready — even when everything feels like it’s happening at once.

Here’s the real, working-woman version of my morning — the one that keeps me grounded and productive on our rural road.

1. Wake Up Early — Before Everyone Else If I Can

I aim to be up by 5:30 or 6:00. Not for aesthetic Instagram moments, but because that’s the only time I can think clearly. Before the messages start, before the kids are up, before the noise. It gives me a head start — and I need it.

A quick face wash, throw on real clothes (not pajama pants), and I’m already in a better mindset.

2. Coffee First, Then the Plan

Coffee gets made before anything else. While it brews, I look over my planner (usually one I created myself) and figure out what the day actually looks like.

I ask:

• What jobs need attention today? (Alston/HLM)

• Are there Airbnb guests coming or checking out?

• Do I have any digital product updates or shop orders to prep?

• What’s the top 3 I have to get done?

I don’t overload myself. I focus on the 2–3 most important tasks and let the rest fall in line.

3. Write It Down — Physically

This matters. I use a printable daily planner to break things down into:

• Work tasks

• Home priorities

• Meals

• Notes for tomorrow

Getting it out of my head and onto paper makes everything more manageable.

4 . Podcasts or music While I Work

Whether I’m cutting metal, working on the computer, or doing chores, I like to put on something that feeds my mind — a short devotional, mindset podcast, or just good music. It keeps my energy right while I move into the work part of the day.

Morning Tools I Actually Use:

• My printable planner: Simple Planner

• Coffee maker that never lets me down: [Link]

• Work boots I wear for everything: [Link]

• Favorite podcast: [Link to Real AF!] (Language warning!)

(affiliate links included — thanks for supporting the blog!)

Final Thoughts

Mornings don’t have to be perfect, but they do need intention.
Out here in the chaos of rural life, a solid start gives me the clarity to run multiple businesses, care for my home, and keep my faith and family first.

You don’t need a long routine — just a strong one.