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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:
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What jobs need attention today? (Alston/HLM)
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Are there Airbnb guests coming or checking out?
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Do I have any digital product updates or shop orders to prep?
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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:
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Work tasks
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Home priorities
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Meals
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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:
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My printable planner: Simple Planner
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Coffee maker that never lets me down: [Link]
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Work boots I wear for everything: [Link]
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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.