I have friends in college who magically wake up at 7 or 8 am without an alarm on the weekends. I still don’t understand how they do it. Sleep has always been sacred to me, so I always try to get 7-9 hours per night. However, college doesn't always makes this possible since it feels like time is never enough to finish all my assignments and study. Even when I finish what is due the next day, I know I need to start working on something else because I feel like I won’t be able to do it in time.

I used to go to sleep at 12 am, and it was such a struggle to wake up for my 9 am. This semester that all changed. I promised myself I would wake up early to workout and be more productive throughout the day. I have to admit that I doubted myself at the beginning, but I am grateful for all the good things that have resulted from my decision.

I have way more energy, which has made it easier to focus and finish my schoolwork before midnight because I know that I need to go to bed early if I want to wake up early. Surprisingly, I don’t have the need to nap, unless I go to bed really late. Even during midterms, I feel more relaxed than before because I get enough sleep and I am able to study better. My overall mood has improved and I always start my day feeling positive.

This schedule, however, does not apply to the weekends. I still love waking up late (relatively) on Saturdays and Sundays, and it is the perfect way to balance my week.

It is true what they say: a little goes a long way.