At 6 a.m., most of us are lucky if we have the energy to just reach for a cup of coffee. Since college, I have seriously struggled with my sleep. College sucks the life out of you. I am definitely not a morning person. I can not understand how a person wakes up at 5 or 6 a.m., but I suspect it is not natural. So when I see you chipper folks strolling (or even running) around campus at 6:30 in the morning with a smile on your face I genuinely question your sanity. Mornings may be rough, but hold off on sleeping in. There are actually some perks to waking up in the sun. College can be a stressful time and adding these habits to my morning routine has really made my first few weeks of college great. I know it's tempting to hit snooze and go back to bed but with these helpful tips, hopefully waking up can be a little easier.
1. Wake up an hour before you have to leave
I had to leave my dorm at different times depending on my first class, but I always make sure to set my alarm an hour before I have to leave. I tend to lay in bed for approximately 5 more minutes, stretch and then start my mourning routine. I enjoy having a slow paced morning. It is so relaxing. I hate feeling rushed. Rushing can lead to a very bad day, so I make sure I have time to get ready, eat breakfast, and prepare myself mentally for class.
2. DO NOT hit snooze — Just don't do it
When school is in session, I never snooze my alarm. Whenever I do snooze my alarm, I tend to fall back asleep, so I keep my alarm far away where I can not reach it. Another helpful hint to college students: wear a Fitbit or apple watch that has an alarm on it. That way you won't be waking up you're roommate.
3. Drink lots of water
I always keep a water bottle on my bedside night table. I drink it first thing in the morning or sip it frequently during the night. It is important to drink lots of water to stay hydrated. I have a daily goal to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day. You're bound to be dehydrated after sleeping for 8 hours, so get to drinking!!
4. Brush & floss your teeth
I brush and floss my teeth every day. Recently, I have been brushing my teeth 3 or more times a day just because I can't stand the feeling of plaque on my teeth. I didn't use to floss, but as I began college I realized how important daily hygiene really is. I always brush before I eat breakfast because I can not stand morning breath. I usually brush after breakfast too. Avoid bad hygiene!
SEE ALSO: 15 Realities Of A Girl Who Is Not, And Will Never Be, A 'Morning Person'
5. Make your bed
I make my bed every morning. Sure there are some days where I skip, but for the most part, it's everyday. I do this because it makes my room look nicer and if I have an unmade bed, chances are I will want to crawl back in eventually. Once the bed is made, I can go on with my day.
6. Open the curtains
I always think it is important to let the light in. I always open my blinds whenever the sun is out because I have natural light. Why waste electricity? Am I right?
7. Have some quiet time
In college, you are constantly surrounded by noise and people. There are not many moments where you can escape the noise. Usually I use my quiet time listening to music or spending some time with God, whether it be worshiping, devotionals, journaling or simply just reading my bible. I personally need time to gather my own thoughts and clear my head. My quiet time is how I destress.
8. Eat breakfast
I can not stress this enough. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. I would recommend to try to eat healthy, however, if you don't have the time just grab something light before heading out the door. Some of my favorite breakfast foods are bananas with peanut butter, toast, and of course coffee.
9. Do something productive before class
Get a homework assignment done or make flash cards for an upcoming quiz. Being productive doesn't always have to pertain to school. Sometimes it can be as simple as working out or cleaning up your dorm. I don't always do the same thing every day, but mornings are one of the times where I have the most focus. I try to take advantage of that and you should too.
With these simple tips, there is no doubt you will not be a successful morning person. Keep in mind, only do what's best for you.
Anyone else have any tips they would like to add? Feel free to comment below!