The Five-Second Habit That Changed My Life

One simple action has completely transformed my friendships and deepened my sense of connection with others: the “Good Morning” text.

I began sending these messages early in my recovery journey. At first, it was a small way to let close family (who had spent years worrying about me) know that I was okay. It was meant as reassurance. But like so many things in recovery, it evolved into something much more powerful than I could have ever imagined.

What started as a check-in quickly became a daily commitment. Without realizing, I was building a pattern of accountability that had been missing in my life for so long. Over the past six and a half years, this simple act has grown alongside my recovery, and with it, so has my life.

Today, I send a “Good Morning” text to nearly 350–400 people every single day–friends, mentors, and people I’ve met along the way. This daily ritual has become a web of connection that continues to bring new and beautiful relationships into my life. Each message takes maybe five seconds to write, but those five seconds can change someone’s day, or even their life.

Don’t believe me? Try it. Choose five people you’ve lost touch with or think about often. Reach out. Let them know they’re on your mind.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and there’s no better time to remind people they matter. A simple message can be a lifeline. It can let someone know they’re seen, they’re remembered, and they’re not alone.

A text takes only 5 seconds to write, who do you care enough about spending 5 seconds on?

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#mentalhealthawarenessmonth #goodmorningtext