Every college student knows the feeling of waking up for an 8 a.m. class and immediatley questioning every decision that led you there. Early morning classes are brutal, especially when the sun isn’t even fully up yet. The days I had 8 a.m. classes use to feel rushed and stressful. I would wake up as late as possible, throw on a random fit, and leave my dorm still half-asleep.
I eventually realized that starting the day in chaos was making the rest of my day feel the same way. So, I built a morning routine that actually makes my 8 a.m.s feel bearable.
Starting earlier makes everything easier
I know it sounds counterproductive, but waking up earlier than I actually need to has made a huge difference. Giving myself more time in the morning actually makes the day feel less exhausting. Starting earlier gives me a moment to breathe before my day actually begins. Even just sitting with my coffee for a few minutes without feeling rushed can change my entire mood for the day.
Looking good really does make you feel better
Giving myself more time in the morning allows for me to have time to get ready. Instead of rushing out the door in whatever I slept in, I have time to pick out an outfit, do my makeup, and fix my hair. You don’t have to show up to class in full glam, but putting yourself together in the morning makes you feel more ready for the rest of the day.
Eating something, even if it’s small
Skipping breakfast used to be a normal part of my rushed mornings. I would tell myself I’d eat later, but that usually meant showing up to class tired and unfocused. I personally can’t eat a full meal at 7 a.m. But I make sure to eat something before I leave for class, even if it’s small like toast, yogurt, or fruit. Having something in your system helps you feel more energized and focused in class before you can have your next meal.
Prioritizing slow mornings
Taking your time in the morning can make a huge difference in your energy for the rest of the day. When you have an early morning class, it can become easy to feel like you need to hurry to get there. For me, waking up earlier, taking a few minutes to look and feel put together, eating something small, and journaling have made a huge difference. Instead of dreading my alarm every morning, I actually have parts of my routine that I look forward to.
No one’s favorite part of college is an 8 a.m. class. But, a good morning routine can make them a lot easier to handle. The best way to survive an early class is to simply give yourself time and space to start the day right.