In our Wake Up Call series, we explore the morning rituals of inspiring women. These routines keep them grounded and motivated. From workouts to family time or quiet moments alone, the mornings shape our days. Today, I’m excited to share insights from my friend, Odette Annable, and her morning practices.
Odette and I connected in 2020, just before the pandemic. I admire how she dives into genuine conversations, listens intently, and supports everyone around her. She's not just an actress; she's a hilarious friend who brings joy into every interaction. Although our busy lives mean we don’t see each other often, our moments together are precious.
Currently, Odette juggles filming Walker while raising her two daughters, Charlie and Andi. There’s a lot happening in her life, and we’re excited to glimpse a day in her world. Trust me; it’ll inspire you.
What’s life been like as an actor?
I began my acting journey at just four years old. I’m not sure if growing up in front of the camera helped or hindered me. My parents balanced allowing me to chase my acting dreams while ensuring I had a normal childhood. They never pressured me to audition, and when it felt overwhelming, I took a step back to focus on friends and school.
I take pride in my work ethic—arriving on time, being prepared, and giving my best effort. Those qualities, combined with determination, have paved my path to success. Acting is my passion. I’m fascinated by filmmaking and have no backup plan; it’s all about perseverance for me. This industry can be tough, and rejection is part of the process, but I’m committed to pursuing my passion.
I have no backup plan; it’s all about perseverance for me.
What have you learned this past year?
Turning 35 brought significant changes. I moved to Texas, which felt like rebuilding my life. Now at 38, the concept of “presence” has become crucial. I often find myself trying to anticipate the future, missing out on the beauty around me. Mastering presence is challenging, but I’m dedicated to practicing it this year.
How would you define your personal style?
I gravitate toward classic pieces that endure. I adore raw woods in my home. While neutrals are my go-to, I’ve started to enjoy mixing patterns and embracing a bit of unpredictability. A typical outfit for me includes straight-leg jeans, a sweater draped over my shoulders, and a stylish pair of boots. I aim for a blend of feminine and masculine.
What time do you wake up?
I rise between 6:30 and 7:00 a.m., thanks to my two little girls. If I had the chance, I’d love to sleep in a bit. As I age, I recognize the power of waking early to kickstart a productive day. I need at least eight hours of sleep; anything less and I’m not my best self. I usually head to bed around 8:00 p.m. and drift off by 9:30 p.m.
What’s your first action in the morning?
I start my day with a cup of English breakfast tea, adding a splash of 2% milk and one Stevia. It’s a must!
What rituals help you succeed?
Making my bed first thing, drinking water, following my skincare routine, and getting dressed set me up for a successful day. Rushing through mornings often leads to chaos, especially with one of my girls having ADHD. We emphasize planning ahead in our family. “Did you PPP?”—Prior Planning Pays—reminds us to prepare the night before.
Can you walk us through your morning beauty routine?
I start by cleansing my face with one of my favorite products: Shani Darden cleansing serum, iS Clinical cleansing complex, or Ourself daily purifying cleanser. I love gel cleansers that efficiently remove makeup without stripping the skin.
Next, I use Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta extra strength daily peel pads and the Advanced multi-perfecting red oil serum from Venn, a fantastic Korean skincare brand. I visit Brooke from The Road Acupuncture in Austin, who does wonders for my skin through acupuncture and facial sculpting.
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel
Venn Advanced Multi-Perfecting Red Oil Serum
What’s your breakfast like?
Breakfast isn’t my favorite meal. I prefer a lavish lunch or dinner. However, if I’m at home, I whip up hard-boiled eggs and a quick smoothie for the family. I blend spinach, frozen berries or mango, coconut milk, chia seeds, and plant-based protein powder. Sometimes I’ll add nut butter, flax, or hemp seeds, measuring ingredients by feel.
What’s always in your fridge?
Cholula, Genoa Salami, and Siete Tortillas are staples. Together, they make a delicious snack!
What are your morning rituals?
I’ll admit, my routine varies between being consistent and chaotic. For 2024, I aim for more discipline. Ideally, I’d wake up before the kids, around 5:30 a.m., drink chlorophyll water, meditate, and fit in a workout—yoga or pilates. I’d make a to-do list for the day, enjoy my tea, and tackle my tasks.
However, consistency has been elusive. I’m learning to be forgiving with myself—every day is a new opportunity to start fresh.
What books do you love?
What’s on your nightstand?
A bottle of water, Thorne Vitamin D/K2 drops, RMS Lipnights overnight lip treatment, Osea anti-aging body balm, and Arrae Calm supplements with magnesium and L-theanine for sleep.
RMS Beauty Lipnights Overnight Lip Mask
What do you listen to while getting ready?
My playlist varies with my mood. I enjoy First Aid Kit Radio for a folk vibe, and Nora Jones is a favorite. If I need an energy boost, I turn on Harry Styles Radio.
Do you exercise in the morning?
This past year, working with a personal trainer has been transformative. It’s a worthwhile investment; I struggle to find motivation without accountability. We started with 45-minute sessions, then reduced to 30, which feels more manageable. I also mix in yoga, pilates, or boxing weekly for variety.
What’s your daily outfit?
My go-to look consists of jeans, a t-shirt, sweater, and boots or loafers, topped off with a stylish coat.
Buck Mason’s tees are my favorite; I have them in black, white, and grey and wear them often.
$45 at Buck MasonJenni Kayne’s cashmere Fisherman sweater is a wardrobe staple.
$425 at Jenni KayneAgolde 90s High-Rise Pinch-Waist Jeans
I adore my Babaton slouch coat; it’s timeless and chic.
$398 at AritziaI love Freda Salvador shoes; their ballet flats and boots are my favorite.
$350 at Freda Salvador
If you had an extra hour each morning, how would you spend it?
I’d use it to read more—finding time for books is important to me.
What brings you joy daily?
I practice gratitude and appreciate the beauty in my life. My marriage, kids, family, friends, and career are gifts I cherish. I remind myself daily that everything can change in an instant.
If you could attribute your success to one thing, what would it be?
Success is a blend of discipline, perseverance, self-belief, resilience, and a touch of luck. Hard work is essential; put in the effort, and success will follow.
Sentence Finishers:
I never leave home without: my phone.
If there were more hours in the day, I would: sleep more.
Healthiest morning habit: waking up grateful.
Worst morning habit: scrolling my phone.
One thing I want to be known for is: being a role model for my daughters.
The one thing I fear the most: whales. All of them!
When I feel that fear: I stay on land.
The book I always recommend is: The War of Art.
One trait you need to succeed in life is: discipline.
Bath or shower? Shower. I’m not a bath person.
What’s your favorite shower product? I love ROZ shampoo and conditioner. Hanni offers a great in-shower moisturizer, which is a lifesaver for me since I’m always cold.
This post was last updated on March 28, 2025 to include new insights.
