If you’re like me, you oversleep a lot despite your noble intentions to get up an hour earlier than you normally would to add final touches to an essay, to squeeze in a quick work out or to make a really great lunch.
Because I sleep through my alarm at least once a week, I’ve become a pro at getting ready in five minutes.
1. Plan ahead.
If you know you have the habit of sleeping in, just avoid the major scare in the morning and take a shower the night before. Your hair may not look as cute if you slept on it wrong, but that’s what ponytails and braids are for. Find a quick, chic haircut that works and go with it on these mornings.
2. Always have a quick outfit.
I have some cute clothes, but on my rushed mornings, I tend to grab jeans and a t-shirt. They are the easiest things to put on. If you have a cute spring dress, put that on (if it’s ironed and ready to go!) because it’s one less article of clothing to worry about.
3. Take care of your skin.
I know I sound like our grandmas when I say that, but seriously — even if you’re pulling an all-nighter you need to wash your face so that you don’t have a major break out. Zits take time and skill to cover up in the morning. If you keep your skin clear, things move along so much quicker. If you have problematic skin, go to the dermatologist (Dr. Kent and Coen in Macon are really good, I see the PA Chad) and get on a low-dose birth control and/or Epidou. I had horrible skin and now I have really clear skin that only breaks out if I sleep in my make up.
4. Have a quick make-up routine.
Some girls are lucky enough that they don’t have to wear make up to have facial features. Being a pale redhead, I at least always wear powder and mascara so that I have eyes and some color to my face. I can (and have) leave the house without make up though– this step can be skipped but most girls don’t want to. I wear make up not because I’m insecure, but because I don’t like looking sickly. My routine usually runs like this: Moisturzier, Stila Tinted Moisturizer, Clinque Powder, Makeup Forever concealer (if needed) and Tarte mascara. All of these products are muss-free and give all day coverage that you won’t have to touch up. If I’m super rushed, it’s just powder and mascara for me. If I have some time, I add a swipe of green, plum or black eyeliner depending on my mood and outfit.
5. Realize what is important.
If you have to finish two projects up, don’t try to work on both of them at once in your precious hour unless you absolutely need to. Otherwise, work on the one that is due earlier and then use your breaks throughout the day (if you have them) to finish up the other one. But again, you should plan ahead and arrange your schedule so that you don’t have to be overwhelmed in the mornings. Skipping a night out is better than failing. What’s going to be different when you go out? Nothing. Get good grades and enough sleep. Priorities might need to be rearranged, but you have to realize what’s important in college is your future, not those drinks that’ll do nothing for your figure.