On average, it takes about two months to form a new habit. Don’t let that hold you back, though, because no matter how long it takes to form a particular habit, it all starts with putting in the work from Day 1. Here are some good habits I’ve adopted that I try to do daily to help me feel more productive.
1.) Make your bed every morning.
Growing up, I never made my bed, but then one morning in high school I decided I was going to start. Honestly, I had no idea how much of an impact this was going to have on me. I do it every day—and no, I don’t just mean throwing your comforter over your messy sheets and calling it a day. Actually take the time and straighten out your sheets, tuck them in, and flatten your comforter out to make your bed look presentable. Stack your pillows in an elegant way to the best of your liking. It is so much nicer coming back to your bed and seeing it nicely made rather than a big mess. Start doing this every day and you will be guaranteed to feel more productive!
2.) DRINK WATER!!!
Many people underestimate how good water actually is for you and your body. Wake up in the morning and drink a glass of water. You will instantly feel more refreshed, especially if you had difficulty getting out of bed that morning. Water is basically the solution to everything in life. Troubled or dry skin? Feeling tired? Digestive problems? Water is a quick fix to all of these—especially in the cold winter when morale is low and water is not the first thing on everyone’s minds. I suggest using a cute reusable water bottle since it will make you want to drink more, plus it saves the environment!
3.) Declutter at least 1 item every day.
With such busy lives, it is often easy to overlook and turn a blind eye to your living or work space. Common thoughts include, “No one is going to see this but me,” or “I’ll do it tomorrow.” All of these are less-than-ideal mental states of mind. If you declutter at least one thing every day, you’ll prevent it from building up. Trust me, we’ve all been there—tired, and just wanting to plop into bed and sleep for countless hours. But those dirty clothes on the floor? Throw them in the hamper. The messy array of books on your desk? Straighten them out. By doing one tiny chore of decluttering each day, you are saving yourself from having an inevitable, massive day of cleaning sometime in your near future.
4.) Look good, feel good!
It is so easy to ignore your appearance—especially when you have an 8 AM, errands to run, or just want to be comfortable. I pick out my outfit before every school day and lay it out so that I know exactly what I am putting on in the morning before class. Not only does this save time and let me sleep a wee bit longer, but it also it makes me commit to my choice, even if I really do want to wear sweats. If you dress in something that makes you feel confident, your day will be much better—and you will not dread waking up in the morning as much if you have an outfit you like already planned out. I personally recommend this for tests and presentations, as it may help you perform better due to your certainty in yourself.
5.) Floss every day!
You might be saying to yourself right now, “I don’t know anyone that actually flosses,” but now you do (it’s me)! After I got my braces off sophomore year of high school, I made a vow that I would floss every day. Yeah, the first few times your gums will most likely bleed, but they will quickly get used to it. You won’t have to lie at the dentist anymore when they ask if you floss daily, and you will feel SO. MUCH. CLEANER. Honestly, once you start making flossing a daily habit of yours, you won’t stop. It’s ingrained in your routine and you will feel gross if you don’t floss just one day. (Tip: Carry floss in your purse or backpack to avoid that ever-so embarrassing food in your teeth in public! Mine has come in handy plenty of times!)
6.) Try getting 8 hours of sleep every night.
Yes, this is difficult. We’ve all done it—“Just one more episode!” or staying up late to study for an exam. Try to not use your phone before bed, as it makes it harder to fall asleep and is distracting. If you sleep for 8 hours, it is easier to wake up in the morning, and you feel much more refreshed and energized throughout the day. Studies have shown that students who get more sleep perform better on exams. Have good time management and plan out your work so that you are not up late doing an assignment or studying. Good luck, and happy sleeping!