Hoda Kotb is embracing a new chapter in her life after 26 years with NBC’s *Today* show,

and she’s making sure to savor the freedom that comes with leaving behind the early mornings that once defined her career.

The beloved journalist and  television personality shared her excitement on Instagram by

posting a screenshot of her alarm clock with wake-up calls set for 3 a.m., 3:15 a.m., and 3:30 a.m. — all of which she had officially turned off.

“No alarm…whaaaaaaaattttt???” Kotb exclaimed in the post, signaling the end of her early morning routines.

The moment of peace marked a significant shift for Kotb, who had spent years rising before dawn to host *Today* alongside her co-hosts,

including Savannah Guthrie and Jenna Bush Hager. For the 60-year-old, this small yet monumental gesture was an expression of relief as she transitioned away from the demanding schedule she had followed for decades.

The news of Kotb’s departure from *Today* in September 2024 took many by surprise, especially given her long and successful career with NBC. Her final day on the show was filled with emotion as Kotb bid farewell to her co-workers and fans. Despite her emotional goodbye, Kotb remained optimistic and upbeat about the future, with her last broadcast featuring a heartwarming appearance from her daughters, Haley and Hope. It was clear that the decision to leave was not an easy one, but Kotb’s focus remained on new opportunities and adventures.

As she adjusted to her new routine post-*Today*, Kotb reflected on the magic of new beginnings. On Monday morning, she shared a powerful quote with her Instagram followers that read, “And suddenly you know … it’s time to start something new and trust the magic of beginnings.” This statement encapsulated her sense of excitement about the future while bidding farewell to the past.

While Kotb is no longer waking up at the crack of dawn for *Today*, she continued to support her colleagues who are stepping into her former role. She sent well wishes to her replacement, Craig Melvin, as well as to Savannah Guthrie, telling them both, “Wake up in the morning … and knock ‘em dead.” Kotb also made sure to acknowledge her co-host Jenna Bush Hager, encouraging her to “sleep tight” and “begin again” with “magic” in her heart. Kotb’s message to Hager and the *Today* team was one of positivity and support as they embark on this new chapter together.

In a heartfelt message on Instagram, Kotb continued to express her gratitude to the *Today* family and the viewers who had supported her throughout her career. “Here’s to everyone starting fresh,” she wrote, tagging Melvin, Guthrie, and Hager. “Let’s do this!” Her post conveyed excitement for both her future and the future of those who will continue to make *Today* a morning staple for audiences.

The decision to leave *Today* was undoubtedly a major one, but Kotb’s lasting impact on the show and the broadcast industry cannot be overstated. Throughout her tenure, she became a beloved figure for her warmth, charm, and candid personality. Whether she was sipping champagne with her co-hosts, sharing inspiring stories, or simply offering comfort during tough times, Kotb’s presence on *Today* was nothing short of magnetic.

Now that Kotb is no longer part of the morning show, her fans and colleagues are eager to see what comes next for the journalist. In her own words, she is “starting something new” and trusting the “magic of beginnings.” Her departure from *Today* marks the end of one chapter and the exciting beginning of another. While it may be hard for many to imagine the show without her, Kotb’s legacy will continue to live on, and her fans are eager to see where this next phase takes her. As she embraces the new freedom of no alarms, it’s clear that Kotb’s next steps will be just as impactful and inspiring as her time on *Today*.