Make Mornings Suck Less With These 9 Tips

By Nicole Yi
StockSnap | Alisa Anton
StockSnap | Alisa Anton

Mornings suck. They're awful and I hate them more than anything else. But that's also because I wake up three snoozes later and have to rush through my routine to get myself out the door in time. I noticed that mornings when I did take my time helped me have a better day after. Though we can't totally avoid the a.m., there are ways to make it less painful and more fulfilling.

  1. Wake up 30 minutes earlier. As hard as it is to get up the first time your alarm goes off, it'll make such a difference. You'll be able to ease into your day slowly instead of scrambling to get ready.
  2. Drink water as soon as you get up. Instead of drinking your coffee first, rehydrate your body after a night's sleep with water. You'll also feel more alert and energized.
  3. Stretch. Just a quick stretch when you get out of bed will get your blood flowing and help wake you up. Bonus points if you turn it into a yoga sequence.
  4. Work out if you can. Breaking a sweat in the morning has numerous benefits including a better mood and more energy. Plus, you won't have to debate working out or not when you get home from work.
  5. Play music. Get a soothing playlist going or a mix of your favorite upbeat songs — whatever will make you feel good that early.
  6. Have breakfast. Starting your day off with a full stomach will provide you with the energy you need to keep going. Keep it light and healthy instead of heavy to stay fueled but not sluggish.
  7. Call or text a friend or family member "good morning." Send good vibes to loved ones before the day even starts and chances are they'll appreciate a morning hello. It'll help you start on a positive note.
  8. Read something. This can be just a couple pages from a book you're reading or an online scan of current events. Activate your brain right off the bat instead of having to jump-start your mind in the office.
  9. Think about your day ahead. You'll be most productive if you prep yourself on your to-dos before tackling them. You'll feel less overwhelmed and be able to start right away.