Most Americans Value Morning Routines but Devote Less Than 30 Minutes, Survey Finds

A new national survey has found that while nearly all Americans believe their morning routines influence their mental health and productivity, most spend less than half an hour on them. The findings, released to mark World Mental Health Day on October 10, highlight a growing disconnect between awareness of wellness habits and the time people dedicate to them.

The “Morning Mindset” survey, commissioned by Nespresso and mental health nonprofit Project Healthy Minds, polled 1,046 adults aged 18 to 64 across the United States. Conducted by data firm Kantar, the study revealed that 90% of respondents said their morning routines set the tone for their overall mental wellness throughout the day.

A family stretching | Source: Pexels

Despite this recognition, 56% reported spending only five to 30 minutes each morning on their routines. The main barriers cited were lack of time or busy schedules (29%), lack of energy (28%), and family obligations (25%). Additionally, 42% said they spend most of their morning free time scrolling on social media.

Phil Schermer, CEO of Project Healthy Minds, noted that time constraints often depend on personal circumstances. “It’s easier to say for someone who’s 22 years old and without kids that they should spend 45 minutes on this. Whereas, if you’re a mom and you’ve got kids and they’re going to school in the morning, that just might not be quite as practical,” he said.

Schermer emphasized the importance of using available time with purpose. “How do we build the right habits and rituals so that we can take on the day?” he said. “If you do not set an intention at the beginning of the day to set yourself up for the day, to recharge midday and to disconnect at night, you’re not set up to thrive.”