326: Why I Started Getting Up at 4:15am (it might surprise you!)

As we wrap up the year with this episode that may or may not be the final episode of 2025, Jesse and I sit down and talk through something real, something I’ve been wrestling with. I’m not really the type to plan out twelve months of episode themes. I record when it’s something actually shaping my life right now, and when it comes to this conversation? It has been shaping everything!Jesse and I thought that we knew what this episode would be about, but we definitely didn't. What it turned into was a little year-end heart check and a look at two habits that I have wanted to build for months: going to bed on time and strength training - the everyday stuff that’s weirdly difficult when life is already overflowing.Listen in as I share the moment a few weeks ago when I finally told Jesse, “I can't figure this out. Help me.” Between our kids’ schedules, it being baseball season, my own work rhythms, and that magical late-night second wind that has betrayed me many times, I truly wondered whether these habits were even possible, but Jesse then suggested something I never would have landed on by myself: a 5 a.m. class at our gym! I tell you how that first week went, what surprised me, and why the locker room shower in total silence may now be one of the great joys of my life.I also discuss the domino effect that this small shift has had on our family, including Micah suddenly turning into a cheerful morning person and how a functional medicine appointment forced me to face the truth that I am not nearly as rested or relaxed as I thought! If you’re ending the year wondering whether a habit that you have been circling forever is actually possible, I hope this episode gives you some hope, some ideas, and maybe even a little permission to try something wild!As always, I would love to hear from you, so send me an email at [email protected]!In This Episode[0:35] - This episode focuses on year-end lessons and rebuilding habits that finally stick![4:15] - I describe how daily unpredictability kept derailing her bedtime and workout intentions.[7:10] - Hear how the schedule review pushes me toward trying a consistent 5 a.m. workout class.[10:52] - I talk about how our 18-year-old daughter supports my first class where I finds a warm and encouraging gym community.[12:48] - Early workouts give her peaceful morning routines and even improve her three-year-old’s mood.[15:51] - I explain how earlier bedtimes boost my sleep quality, supporting the rest my doctor says that I need.[18:42] - I realize that I have been disconnecting from my body and ignoring my own physical signals.[20:36] - I have recognized that my constant “fight mode” is draining my body.[22:48] - My therapist has warned me that nonstop high alert will eventually break me down.[25:55] - I adopt a calm, light-free morning routine to support rest, grounding, and early workouts.[27:25] - I share my full rhythm to encourage listeners to build habits aligned with your deeper values.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out KiwiCo and use my code CRYSTAL for a great deal: https://kiwico.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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