Welcome to the Early to Rise Challenge! Throughout the month of March, I’m challenging myself and my readers to make the most of their mornings. So every week day morning at 9 a.m. EST, I’m posting a short Early to Rise post. I’ll share a few of my thoughts on the day’s passage from Early to Rise, tell you what time I got up that morning, and encourage you to leave a comment to tell us what time you got up and how you’re doing on the challenge.
You’re Not Alone
If you’re feeling alone in this Early to Rise challenge, today’s post is for you.
It’s hard to go against the flow. It’s difficult to feel like you’re the only one doing something, the only one who cares enough to make changes in your life.
But I promise that it’s worth it. Even if most of your friends think that you’re crazy for trying to live on less than you make, pay off debt, set goals, and/or get up early, do not let that deter you.
And know that you’re not alone. There are thousands of us out there who are with you in this. We’re all struggling along in our own way, but we “get” you.We understand that you want something more than the status quo and we wholeheartedly agree with you.
So keep pressing forward. Don’t give up. Keep looking for fellow comrades who get your “weirdness” and who aren’t afraid to support you — or even join you. They are out there, it just might take you a little while to find them!
Do you feel alone in this challenge — or just alone in your life and goals in general? If so, would you do me a favor and leave a comment on this post or email me directly. I’d love to take a minute to write and encourage you to let you know that we’re cheering for you.
And if you are looking for an online accountability partner, leave a comment, too, and maybe someone here can link up with you to be your accountability partner and encourager!
What Time Did You Get Up This Morning?
Yes, it was another crazy-early morning. You can read why I’m adopting this short-term schedule here.
What time did you get up? Leave a comment and let us know!
Join in the Chatter!
Want to blog about this challenge? If you’re blogging through this challenge with me, be sure to leave your link to your direct post for today below. Plus, if you’d like to post your daily posts to the Early to Rise Group Board on my Pinterest page, just shoot me an email (moneysavingmom @ gmail dot com) and I’ll invite you.
Want to follow along on Twitter or Instagram? Each week day morning on my Facebook Page, my Twitter account, and my Instagram account, I’ll be posting a picture of my alarm clock as public accountability. I’d love to have you do the same or join in the discussion on Twitter and Instagram. Just follow hashtag #EarlytoRise to see what others are tweeting and Instagramming about this challenge!
Sharon says
To those who have been successful at rising early, what seem to be the top reasons for success? If there is one habit I wish I could develop, it would be rising early. Obviously I don’t want it bad enough because I haven’t been successful. I would be embarrassed to confess what time I get up on some days. My husband and I have no children, and I don’t start my job until 3pm. I feel so lazy and would love to break my bad habit, but can’t seem to find motivation!
Katie says
6:07. Totally feeling down today after a somewhat snide-sounding comment on yesterday’s Pin. This post was nice to read, but hasn’t really changed much I’m afraid. It’s hard to hold onto joy when every day I feel more physically debilitated by ninth-month pregnancy issues. Monday night I was actually weeping in the middle of the night for pain and over the random thought that if there were a fire or something, I might not physically be able to get out of bed in time.
It’s funny, but I’ve run across the “don’t let comparison steal your joy” quote in some form or other all day today – as a friend’s Facebook status (incidentally, it was also in reference to her pregnancy which is two weeks more advanced than mine), on a linked-up blog, as our MOPS devotional topic today, etc…. Clearly God is trying to speak to me about this. I just wish what He was asking wasn’t so hard right now…
Crystal says
I’m so sorry you’re feeling down! Here’s to hoping you have some encouragement today!
{Hugs!}
Kerri says
Today’s post was very timely for me. Just over a year ago, my husband and I began a new journey as urban missionaries working with at-risk youth. It has been an exciting year to see first-hand the transformation in many lives, but not without it’s challenges. And the vast majority of people in our lives think we are absolutely crazy for doing what we do. Like most missionaries, we live off of people’s donations. :). Explaining to people why we left good paying jobs and careers for this lifestyle is always interesting.
I have really enjoyed ths morning challenge and look forward to continuing my early mornings even after March is over.
Crystal says
I love your willingness to step out and take risks! It inspires me!
Andrea says
This series has been such an inspiration to me – though I haven’t actually participated in the challenge. My plan is to start in April because I know that I just can’t get enough done when I’m waking up with (or even after!) my kids. Thank you for showing your commitment to doing the tough things – and the incredible blessings that follow.
BTW, if anyone needs an accountability partner, please let me know. I’m at [email protected].
Carol@simple_catholic says
I didn’t get online yesterday but I did get up at 6:30am and today I got up at 5:30am, my best time yet! Although I’ve been shooting for 6:30 for this challenge my ultimate goal is to regularly get up at 5:30.
Good luck on editing your latest book!
My husband works nights and the immediate people in my life do not get the early rising thing at all, so I am pretty much alone in this. That’s why I look forward to reading the encouraging posts and great comments here at MSM every day, then I don’t feel so alone. 🙂
Crystal says
I’m so glad you find the comments here helpful! I do, too!
Melissa says
I don’t feel alone in rising early, as my husband wakes up at 5am every weekday morning too, but we do frequently feel alone in our quest to live below our means and become (and then stay) debt free. We currently live in a 1200 square foot condo and we’re hoping to move next year into a place that is closer to where we work and smaller. It seems most people do not understand why we’d volunteer to buy a smaller place than the moderately sized condo we currently own. I don’t think most understand why we choose to live frugally by clipping coupons, visiting the library, not having TV service, and not having data plans for our cell phones. I’m not sure most people understand that we actually don’t feel deprived and that we make the decisions we do because we have our goals in sight. It gives me much more pleasure to see the amount left on my student loans decrease much ahead of schedule than having cable or a data plan would. Maybe that is a little weird, but I’m okay with it. 🙂
Crystal says
You are doing a fantastic job! Keep it up!
Melissa says
🙂 Thank you for the encouragement. Your blog is a fantastic uplifting part of my day! 🙂
Ro says
I woke up at 6:15 which is late for me. I tend to get up closer to 5. Still I do it because I enjoy my bible reading and studying Gods word. I like to place Him first since I know I will be consumed with the day. I also enjoy getting up early to pray. I love being able to come to God and pray for those who don’t know Him and also for the hectic day ahead. Getting up early works for me but as I get older I can feel the bed calling me to stay longer, ha,ha. May God bless all you do!
Laura Jane @ Super Sweet Life says
I actually succeeded this morning for the first time in a while in getting up on time! I think I’ve just now recovered from the time change. I totally agree with it seeming weird. When people ask me what time I get up now that I’m not working a traditional day job and can make my own schedule, they look at me like I’m crazy when I tell them I still get up fairly early and still use an alarm!
Crystal says
Woot! Go you!
Shannon says
I appreciate and really needed to hear the encouragement regarding doing more than the status quo. People sometimes mistake this for being less fortunate or less happy when in fact it brings great joy improving ourselves by living frugally and working toward being debt free. Because we cannot join in as many expensive outings, enjoy our reliable used and paid for vehicles and actually feel we are a closer knit family in our 952 sq ft. paid for home, we certainly do not fit into alot of mainstream groups. In this way, it can appear to be lonely at times but maybe it is just as lonely for those mainstreamers? However, I have become encouraged to read much more on subjects that keep us focused and grounded and still loving those who may not be on the same path we are despite how they feel about us 🙂 Reading books and my Bible during this challenge has really helped with the lonely path syndrome and now I just need to find that post about getting my books cheaper with all of the reading I’m doing! 😉
Paula says
Shannon you are doing a great job! I know it may be challenging but please do not study about what others may call you. People say negative things but they secretly want what you have…no car loans, no mortgage. What amazing accomplishments! Congratulations. Even if you do not fit the customary groups just remember what Crystal said. You are not alone. Many of us are trying to become debt free just like you. If you can share some of your stories on the road you traveled to achieve debt free status that will enrich the lives of so many of us here. God will also lead you to your own group that shares the common values as your family. Keep on living in strength and faith. Well done.
Shannon says
Paula, what a thoughtful message to receive first thing this morning. Thank you so much for the encouragement. We still have a way to go but it is so nice to know others are on our same path and we have to just continue to try to maintain our relationships the best we can with other friends and family who may not be on this path but accept them for the path they have chosen. Your message means alot. Thank you and I wish you the very best on your journey too!
Paula says
Good evening Shannon, your response made my day. So glad that you appreciated my comments. Thank you for the best wishes. Remember, we are here with you. PS Crystal has a link for a free online 4 week blogging course https://moneysavingmom.com/2013/03/free-4-week-online-blogging-class.html (wink wink) 🙂
Paula says
Hi Shannon, your message made my day. So glad that you appreciated my comments. Thank you too for the kind words and wishes. Remember we are here with you. BTW Crystal recently posted a link for a 4 week online blogging course
https://moneysavingmom.com/2013/03/free-4-week-online-blogging-class.html (wink wink) 🙂
Elizabeth says
I just feel alone in utter failure. Sometimes it just seems like all the pieces fall just rigt for everyone around me and I’m left standing there going, “I have no bloody clue how to pull this off.” Case in point the early to rise. I’ve got no clue how to start. I keep thinking it sounds like a good idea but making it into my bed by midnight is hard alone because my husband wants to spend time with me after the kids are put down then 11 he goes to bed and I do chores & back up at 6 am to do it again. I suppose I could got to bed at 11 and get up at 5 to do chores but that doesn’t seem like I’d gain anything.
Know folks this girl is utterly jealous. Good job everyone else 🙂
Kate says
Elizabeth, don’t fall into the Mommy trap of comparing yourself to others! Our lives are all different, and we are all different people. I’m sure you’re a great wife and mother. I’m a night owl, too, and I like to do all the things these ladies are talking about (packing lunches, cleaning, making lists, etc.) the night before, because I am my best from 9 to 11 p.m. I get up at 7 a.m., and I’m happy about that! 😉
Crystal says
Thanks so much for chiming in, Kate. I really appreciate what you shared!
Andy Traub says
Elizabeth, first, don’t believe what you read on the internet! Not everyone else is succeeding. When they fail they usually DON’T post that. If you need a copy of my book then shoot me an email at andy at earlytorisebook.com and I’d be happy to send you a copy (electronic is the only version available right now). Just don’t compare yourself to others based on their internet posts. That’s not real life.
Maureen says
I just read the explanation on why you are getting up at 3am! I love how you and your husband are so intentional with your plans and how well you communicate with each other. I would only caution you to be careful while you are driving during the day. Getting up in the middle of the night is hard on your body (even if you are going to sleep earlier). Your reflexes and reactions may be a little off.
Crystal says
Thanks for your encouragement and caution! I appreciate it.
Tiffany says
Thanks so much for this post. I am not doing the early bird challenge (I’m 6 months pregnant and have a 2 year old who still does not sleep through the night!!!!), but hubby and I are making some major changes in our family lifestyle lately that has our family and friends thinking that we are the village idiots. I am passionate about always looking for better and more efficient ways to run our household and our bodies so we made changes like: living on cash only, cloth diapers, cooking from scratch, almost eliminating processed foods from our diet, etc. I know it’s a lot for friends and family to take in, but we are excited about the direction we are going. If I try to share our progress and setbacks, I always get the “you shouldn’t/can’t do that” talk. It can be really discouraging as the people we love the most are the worst judges.
So, thanks so much for posting this. I really needed to hear that it’s okay to “be me.”
Andy Traub says
Village idiots eh? Sounds like you’re Einstein…smarter than everyone else so you’re misunderstood! Way to go.
Tiffany says
Thank you for the encouragement. It means a lot to our growing family. I copied it in calligraphy and taped it to the bathroom mirrors.
Anne says
Yes! I discovered my reason for rising early, but not too early just yet – waiting for the temperature to rise too. My reason is to spend the first moments of the day praying a particular devotional to help me live a more virtuous life, sipping coffee prepared by my new SB coffee press.
The day after Easter I resume my part time seasonal job, employment that cash flows college for our daughters. The work itself can be a blast as long as I am not distracted by the secular nature of my coworkers which I’ve allowed to bring me down in previous years. I feel most alone when I know how hard I am working to reach our family goals and yet some of my coworkers live for the moment, or are jealous of my family, watching their lack of work ethic, or when some steal my opportunities out of their own greed.
It is for these reasons I am newly committed to rise early. I want to be a virtuous light to my family and those God has put in my path. I need the strength to bring Him glory!
Crystal says
I love your beautiful attitude and heart!
Jennifer says
Thank you so much for posting this Crystal! It is exactly what I needed to hear this morning. While I am not doing the early to rise challenge right now due to getting up in the night with an infant, I found this post very encouraging. My husband and I recently made the commitment to become debt free. We made a budget, cut off our cable, got rid of our landline, and went down to one car. We are so excited about the freedom that will come with being debt free but have found that many people just don’t “get it”. So I just wanted to say thank you for all of your encouragement! You are such an inspiration to me!
Crystal says
I’m cheering for you! And will you do me a favor and email me when you’re debt-free? I want to celebrate your success with you!
Andy Traub says
Jennifer, THAT is awesome! You’ll sleep a lot better when you’re debt free. And make sure to encourage and praise your hubby a lot for taking those steps. We husbands are real needy like that. 🙂
Jennifer says
Thank you Crystal and Andy for your encouragement! Crystal, I will definitely email you once we are debt free. Very much looking forward to that day!
Shelly says
I have found that many of my friends like to be up later instead of getting up early. My husband likes to get up early and he has started getting up early too. I usually don’t feel lonely in getting up early. I so enjoy the quiet time at our house.
I agree with you that change is so difficult. There have been so many morning where I had questioned why I am even getting up so early when I could be in bed. But once I get moving I am always glad I pushed myself out of bed.
Heather says
Thank you so much for doing this challenge. It has been awesome. I never thought I’d get up at 5:30 because I wanted to. Now I’m going to start getting up at 4:30 so I can pack my husband’s cooler and send him off to work.
Crystal says
I am SO proud of you!
Kate@OrganizationfortheTypeB says
Hi! I needed this post. We are on spring break, so I didn’t get up until 7am. Good luck on your editing!
Anyway, I feel like no one in my “real” life gets why I want to shop at thrift stores, live a minimalist lifestyle, use cloth diapers. I get the feeling everyone thinks I am nuts or they pity me. I want to live this way! I needed to hear that affirmation that going against the “status quo” is okay, and there are other people out there who live like me (and enjoy it!)
Kate
Crystal says
You are SO not alone! We’re rooting for you here! And I wish you lived closer so I could have you over for coffee and tell you face to face that you’re not the only weird one out there. 🙂
{Hugs!}
Kate@OrganizationfortheTypeB says
Thank you so much for the encouragement!
Would love to meet for coffee someday !
Kate
Victoria says
I often feel alone as an early bird. There just seems to be so many events out there planned for night owl moms. However, if you really search I have found you can find some early birds out there. Like my running buddies who meet all week long at 5:15 am to run outdoors together. I love joining them once a week when the weather warms up (I am not one to run outdoors when it is freezing).
Crystal says
I’m so glad you’ve found some early birds to join you!
{And I’m with you on the not running outdoors when it’s freezing thing! :)}
Victoria says
Whenever I complain about the “late” night twitter parties I want to attend but can’t seem to stay awake for, my husband always tell me I should start an early risers twitter party.