I used to love mornings. I always have felt most productive in the morning, and waking up was never a problem when my mom would come banging on my door every day telling me to get up. However, when I came to college, with a more flexible schedule and more all-nighters, waking up early has become more and more of a challenge.
Here are some helpful tips I use to wake up early and start being productive early in the day. Anyone who says there aren’t enough hours in the day didn't wake up early enough.
1. Leave your room.
Right away. Once you get out of bed, leave the room so you aren’t tempted to get back in bed.
2. Set out your outfit the night before.
When you don’t have to waste any time picking out an outfit, you will be able to have a quick start to the day and be able to go get some coffee ASAP.
3. Go to bed earlier.
Although it can seem impossible to get everything done without an all-nighter, sometimes waking up early the next morning, refreshed and ready to get back to studying can be more beneficial in the long run.
4. Eat breakfast.
Nothing gets me out of bed earlier than the thought of having time for a filling breakfast.
5. Use apps like Sleep Cycle.
Sleep Cycle is an alarm that monitors your sleep cycle and wakes you up when you are coming out of your deep sleep (REM sleep cycle). It will wake you up within 30 minutes of the time you set by choosing the most optimal time to wake up with energy based off of your sleep cycle.
6. Get up at the same time every day.
This habit can make a huge difference in your sleep habits and overall energy levels. By waking up at the same time every day, you can guarantee to make it to your 8AMs, but also give yourself a few hours to be productive before your later classes.
7. Leave the blinds open.
Natural light will make it easier to wake up earlier. A dark dorm room and a comfy bed are not good motivators to get your day started.
8. Set an hourly schedule the night before.
If you have a schedule set out from the moment you wake up, including little tasks like getting ready, it will give your day more purpose and help you stay productive from the moment you wake up in the morning.
9. Change your mindset.
Right before you fall asleep, set a goal to wake up early. Remind yourself of those few hours you will get back in your day, hours that you would have just wasted sleeping. Plan to do something you enjoy with those hours later in the day, after you were productive in the morning.
10. Read my article "10 Songs To Get You Out of Bed For Your 8 A.M."
You're welcome.
