Why the 5 am Club Didn’t Work for Me (And the Confidence to Do It My Way)

Woman lying in bed with sleep mask, morning routine, 5am club

Have you ever heard of the 5 am Club, promoted by life coach Robin Sharma? The concept is simple: wake up at 5 am, dedicate an hour to self-development, and watch your life transform. It’s a powerful idea, and I admire Robin Sharma for his insights—I even followed his program for a while.

For those of you who are early birds and love a peaceful morning routine, that’s absolutely wonderful. I’ve deeply enjoyed the few times I’ve watched the sunrise and done yoga in the quiet hours of the morning. 🌅

But as a mom navigating sleepless nights with little ones, this method felt impossible. I’d beat myself up for not having the discipline to wake up early and do yoga, journaling, or exercise. I thought, If only I could get up at 5 am, my life would be so much better.

Fast forward a few years, and I still don’t wake up at 5 am. My energy peaks in the afternoon or evening—I’m more of a night owl. And I’ve come to the conclusion that that’s okay.

Letting Go of the Pressure to Fit In

As moms, we already deal with so much pressure. Adding another expectation—like waking up at 5 am—that feels heavy or leads to self-criticism when we don’t meet it doesn’t help.

The truth is, not every method works for everyone. Your circumstances, energy patterns, and preferences are unique, and that’s okay. Meaningful moments can happen at any time of day. For example, I often recharge with an evening walk with our dog or a peaceful stroll in the afternoon.

Finding What Works for You

Building new habits does take effort, but they should feel joyful, natural, and aligned with your life. As someone once said:

“Don’t think about how you feel before doing it; think about how you’ll feel after.”

This mindset has helped me push through moments when I don’t feel like starting something, like heading to a workout class on a rainy evening. And I always feel better afterward.

Another favorite approach of mine is the 2 out of 3 rule by Robin Conley Downs. This rule reminds us that progress doesn’t require perfection—just consistency. If you aim to do yoga every day but miss a day, don’t beat yourself up. Instead, gently return to it the next day. The goal is to do what you set out to do on more days than not, which helps build habits without adding unnecessary pressure.

Many of my clients have found this mindset life-changing:
“Don’t beat yourself up. Just gently get back to it the next time.”

Tools for a Joyful Life

This philosophy is also at the heart of my Mini-Courses. I designed these courses to bring joy, not feel like another “to-do” list. Use the tools and techniques that resonate with you, and leave the rest for another time.

Each course is:

  • Short and hands-on: Perfect for busy moms.
  • Practical and joyful: Tools and techniques to help you feel more balanced, connected, and fulfilled.
  • Aligned with YOU: Take what feels right and leave the rest—because you know what works best for your life.

These tools have completely changed how I experience and enjoy everyday life. A small shift in perspective, or just a little time to reconnect with yourself, can make all the difference.

Make Yourself a Gift This Holiday Season

Amidst the holiday hustle, I hope you’ll take a moment to reflect on what feels right for you. Give yourself permission to create more joy, ease, and connection—on your terms.

🎁 Make yourself a special Christmas gift this year. Start your personal joy journey with one (or more!) of these mini-courses and experience the difference firsthand.

Explore the Mini-Course Library here!

Remember, your joy matters. Let’s make it a priority this holiday season and beyond.

With love and light,
Judith

 

 

Welcome!
I’m the author of “Inspirations from Abroad for a Happier Life at Home,” a book that draws from living experiences in nine countries across the globe and that aims to provide inspirations to live a happier, more joyful, balanced, and fulfilling everyday life at home – no matter where in the world you live.
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