It’s 7:40 a.m. You’ve just woken up to your second alarm, because you slept through your first one. Now instead of having 20 minutes to get ready, you have 10. You frantically throw on some clothes, slap on a little deodorant, and run a brush through your hair as you rush out the door with a granola bar in hand. 

We’ve all been there. Mornings can be the most stressful time of the day. Or they can be the most productive. We’ve compiled a list of five simple ways to make your mornings a little less hectic.  

Wake Up Earlier

We know this isn’t a fun one, but studies have shown that waking up as little as half an hour earlier every morning has a huge impact on the rest of your day. When you have more time to get ready, you start your day feeling calm and purposeful, instead of stressed and rushed. Resisting the temptation to hit snooze and catch a few more Z’s gives you more time to prepare for the day. You’ll be ready to conquer whatever the day may throw your way. 

Smile

This might seem silly, but science backs it up. Smiling causes your body to release endorphins that literally put you in a better mood. Just think of something or someone you’re thankful for. Instead of starting your day off feeling frazzled and stressed, you’ll be starting your day with an attitude of gratitude and joy.

Hydrate

This is a big one. Just think about it — you haven’t had a drop of water in hours. Drinking a glass of cold water will replenish your body and refresh your mind. Putting lemon in your water has some added health benefits too; it cleanses and stimulates your liver and kidneys and can even make your skin healthier. 

Eat

Everyone always says that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and they’re right. Eating a balanced breakfast of lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats will give you the energy you need to tackle your day. Eating breakfast also fills you up, so you won’t be distracted by hunger all morning. 

Make Your Bed

This isn’t fun or exciting, but making your bed in the morning has been proven to lead to a more productive and successful day. Many accomplished people across all fields and skill sets have said that making their bed in the morning is a crucial part of their morning routine. Completing this simple task will give you a sense of accomplishment, routine, and order that will carry over into the rest of your day. 

We hope these tips make your mornings a little less crazy and a little more efficient. 

Be well, Auburn.

 Photography by Grace H.