The “Lazy” Fix: 11 Rest-Based Habits That Could Be More Effective Than Your Old Routine

Have you ever felt like the world rewards people who power through exhaustion and hustle from sunrise to sunset? Maybe you've tried squeezing just one more thing into your daily routine—only to end up more drained than energized. If so, you’re in generous company. The truth is, the pressure to adopt “high-effort” routines can zap your joy and leave you running on empty. What if you could actually do less—and feel better? What if slowing down and building rest right into your daily habits was not only allowed, but actually the smarter, science-backed path to lasting wellness?

1. Prioritize Sleep Over Early Rising

Many people believe that waking up before the sun guarantees a productive day, but quality sleep is a far more powerful investment in your health. Over one-third of American adults don’t get the recommended seven hours of sleep each night, according to the CDC, which can leave you feeling foggy, moody, and unfocused. Dr. Nikole Benders-Hadi, a psychiatrist and behavioral health expert, reminds us that, “If getting up at 5 a.m. every morning creates a barrier to you getting enough restful sleep, don’t do it.” Prioritizing sleep means listening to your body’s natural rhythm instead of pushing through fatigue. Try setting a consistent bedtime—even on weekends—and keep screens away from your bedside to support a deeper, more restorative rest. You’ll likely notice your energy, memory, and mood improve naturally, all without adding a single new task to your routine.

2. Declutter Your Morning Decisions

Mornings can be surprisingly stressful, especially when every choice feels urgent. Decision fatigue is real: The more options you face before breakfast, the quicker your willpower wears out. That’s why a “lazy” routine that simplifies your morning is actually a smart, energy-saving habit. Lay out your clothes and prep breakfast the night before, leaving less to decide when you first wake up. As Dr. Benders-Hadi notes, reorganizing your mornings so you have fewer tasks can make the whole day feel more manageable. By outsourcing decisions to your past self, you preserve precious mental energy for what really matters. This small shift creates more breathing room and less stress—setting you up for a smoother, more settled day right from the beginning.