Ah, the dreaded 8:30 am class. After the first month of school, I’m looking around and seeing an all-time low of motivation for waking up. Speaking from experience, it’s so easy to hit snooze one too many times. Next thing you know, it’s 8:20 and you make a mad dash for class wearing the first hoodie you grabbed from your closet. While this technically gets the job done it’s not exactly the best start to the morning. If you’re looking for a way to jump-start your day, or even just to survive the semester, here are some tips on how to get that 8:30 routine down to a science.
- GET ENOUGH SLEEP
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Early mornings are rough as it is, but starting the day on minimal sleep makes it even harder. Set yourself a cut-off time to put that phone down and turn out the lights—I know, it’s hard, but your future self will thank you for getting enough rest. Plus, you’ll be awake and alive enough to kill it in your class discussions.
- PLAN YOUR OUTFIT THE NIGHT BEFORE
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Having your clothes ready really cuts down on those morning decisions. If you’ve ever tried to pick out a cute outfit in less than 5 minutes, you’ll get where I’m coming from with this one. You end up digging through your drawers to find that one top you just have to wear, and, let’s be honest, there’s no time for that at 8:00 in the morning. A great way to do this is to create a ‘uniform’, or some fool-proof outfit combos that do the job no matter what. Jeans and a sweater, or a hoodie and sweats; having easy basics makes life a lot easier. Morning classes are a no-judgment zone for fashion, but remember, if you look good, you feel good!
- SKINCARE AND MAKEUP
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Makeup and skincare depends on what type of person you are. For me, splashing water on my face is a great way to feel a little more awake. My best advice is to do what makes you feel the best, but keep it simple. Have your concealer and mascara ready to go the night before, but maybe save that cute eyeliner look for another day. You can always touch up after class, but the main goal is to be out the door on time. And remember sunscreen if it’s a sunny day!
- HAVE YOUR BAG PACKED
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It’s so easy to forget your textbook or laptop charger if you’re frantically throwing things in a backpack (I’m definitely not speaking from experience on this one…). Make a list of everything you’ll need and double-check before hopping into bed. Having everything ready to go simplifies your morning that much more.
- CAFFEINE
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I will confess that I can’t function in the morning without my coffee. If you’re caffeine dependent like me, planning to stop by the Fojo station or even just use the Keurig in your room is essential. Savetime by brewing while you wash your face or doing some last-minute reading while waiting in line.
- BREAKFAST
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I’ve definitely become a breakfast-after-class person, but I know that’s not the case for everyone. Oatmeal, protein bars, or anything quick and portable are your best bets in the morning. If you’re an avid breakfast person, make sure to give yourself time to stop by the omelet station in Frank or toast up a bagel. Everyone has their own morning rituals and it’s important to figure out what works best for you.
- BLAST THAT MUSIC
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There’s nothing better than blasting some upbeat tunes while you get ready. It’s a great way to wake up and start the day out right. Gather a few of your high-energy faves and make a playlist! Throwbacks are a personal favorite, and I definitely recommend checking out the new Taylor Swift album too! (Headphones are an essential if you have roommates!)
- KNOW YOURSELF
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Knowing what you need to have a successful morning is key. If you can wake up ten minutes before class and feel great then you do you! It’s all about streamlining the process and, for me at least, just surviving the rest of the semester.