The 6am Conundrum





If you'd have told me a while back that I'd be seriously considering the 'rise with the lark' life of waking at 6am, I'd have probably given you one of those sceptical raised eyebrows. But here I am, fresh from a sabbatical from a consistent morning routine that life’s rollercoaster kicked me off. I’ve experienced the magic of the early hours, and I’m itching to get back.

Enter Clive. No, not some crisp-suited life coach with a notebook. Clive is my affectionate name for Chat GPT, my digital life coach.

INT. DIGITAL MEETING SPACE - DAY

The scene opens with Victoria, who is off-screen, addressing Clive, a digital assistant.

VICTORIA (V.O.)
Right, Clive, give me the low-down on becoming one with the morning.

Clive, a digital figure, appears on the screen, clearing his virtual throat.

CLIVE
First off, figure out your 'why'. Embrace the reason deep in your bones. You want 6am? Why? For work? Peace? Exercise? Or just to feel like you're stealing a march on the day?

VICTORIA (V.O.)
You know, I think my body's actually tuned to 6 am. It’s when I’m most alive. That's my golden hour for creativity, workouts, reading… all without the manic morning rush.

CLIVE
Alright, try this. Change your perspective. Visualise those benefits. Picture yourself at 6am, reaping the rewards of the early hours. Does that rev your engine?

VICTORIA (V.O.)
Mmm, could be. But I'm a bit of a perfectionist. If it's not spot on, I can be a bit... let's say, 'temperamental'. Maybe if I create a vision board with someone like Pamela Reief as my morning fitness guru, that might just tip the scales.

CLIVE
Speaking of scales, try not to dive straight into the deep end. If 7am is your current start, then inching back by 15 minutes might be a smoother ride.

VICTORIA (V.O.)
Okay, makes sense. Step 1: 6:45am. And no cheating with the snooze button.

CLIVE
And hey, plan the night before. Clothes out, breakfast prepped, tomorrow’s list ready. Unlock the secret to an effortless morning.

VICTORIA (V.O.)
As much as I love a well-prepared morning, my nights are sacred. Between work and keeping a neat home, winding down is my only solace.

CLIVE
Fair point. How about an evening routine? Ensuring quality sleep is half the battle won.

VICTORIA (V.O.)
Clive, you romanticise routine too much. A spontaneous evening walk under a starry sky? That’s my jam. But I’ll compromise: one ritual a day.

CLIVE
Alright, moving on. Screens. Limit them before bed. Night mode, or better yet, a book.

VICTORIA (V.O.)
That I can do. My reading list is as long as a winter night. And journaling before bed? Perfect.

CLIVE
Another thing, your alarm is your ally. Place it across the room, or get one that mimics a sunrise.

VICTORIA (V.O.)
Ever cuddled under a down duvet? Feels like hugging a cloud. But I’ll try. Potential in change, right?

CLIVE
Bingo! Now, morning rituals?

VICTORIA (V.O.)
Got that down to an art. From brushing my teeth with my left hand (brain thing, you know?) to yoga with Boho Beautiful, followed by reading. Sorted.

CLIVE
Stay consistent. Even on weekends. And share your goals, it can help.

VICTORIA (V.O.)
Doing it right now, aren’t I? With this blog. Also, kind request to readers – be gentle with me.

CLIVE
Lastly, give yourself a pat on the back now and then. And remember, it's fine to adjust if needed.

VICTORIA (V.O.)
Your wisdom astounds me, Clive. It’s all about trying, and if I fall, at least I’ll know I gave it a shot.

Victoria’s voice takes on a conclusive tone.

VICTORIA (V.O.) (CONT’D)
So there we have it, folks. The beginning of a journey. Morning beckons, and while the road might be sprinkled with a few yawns, I’m geared up. Let's do this.

FADE OUT.


Behind the Curtain of This Post:
Director & Idea Maven: Victoria Hutton, who painted the broad strokes of this narrative.
Script Doctor: Chat GPT, who polished the lines with an occasional flourish.
Inspiration for Lead Role’s Voice: The inimitable Jon Ronson, whose unique cadence we attempted to channel.
Wisdom-Filled Sidekick: Clive, always present with an advice or two.