23 Ways to Wake Up Happier Every Morning

POPSUGAR Photography | Benjamin Stone
POPSUGAR Photography | Benjamin Stone

If you're not a morning person, waking up is a pure struggle that consists of the snooze button and a strong cup of coffee. For most of us, this daily routine gets us out the door, but it doesn't necessarily make us any more excited to start the day. An easy way to change this somber outlook, however, is by altering your actions. Because why shouldn't you wake up in a good mood? We rounded up several ways to help you get going every day.

Eat Breakfast
Getty | Alexander Spatari

Eat Breakfast

A good breakfast fuels the soul but rarely do we indulge in big breakfasts for the sake of time (and sleep). However, carving out even just 15 minutes to eat a healthy breakfast can make you instantly feel more awake and energetic. Everyone knows a happy stomach equals a happier you.

Stretch Your Muscles as Soon as You Wake Up
Getty | Andersen Ross Photography

Stretch Your Muscles as Soon as You Wake Up

This gets the blood flowing throughout your body and you can even do the stretches under your covers. Once those endorphins are released, you'll feel less stressed and view your day with a more positive attitude.

Don't Watch TV
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Don't Watch TV

If you're easily upset over bad news, skip the morning programs. You can always record the show to watch later at night.

Play Music
Getty | Carlina Teteris

Play Music

Whip up a feel-good playlist of all your favorite songs and press play as soon as you wake up to go about your daily routine.

Prepare For the Next Morning the Night Before
Getty | Pulse

Prepare For the Next Morning the Night Before

When you're rushing to find your keys, wallet, cell phone, and work notes before you head to work, it will make you feel flustered and agitated. If you take 10 minutes to prepare everything the night before, however, you'll wake up with fewer worries.

Play With Your Pet
Getty | Hallie Bear

Play With Your Pet

An instant mood booster? Your furry best friend!

Clean Your Room at Night
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Clean Your Room at Night

Waking up to a clean room is one of the best feelings in the world and you don't have to worry about checking that off your to-do list.

Add Some Fresh Flowers to Your Nightstand
Getty | Flavia Morlachetti

Add Some Fresh Flowers to Your Nightstand

Scientific studies have shown flowers will make a person happier, so keep some pretty arrangements where you can see them first thing in the morning.

Don't Hit Snooze
Getty | Karl Tapales

Don't Hit Snooze

Whatever you do, do not hit your snooze button! Science explains why, but basically you'll wake up feeling groggier and more tired than if you had just woken up.

Keep the Curtains or Shades Half Closed
Getty | Bambu Productions

Keep the Curtains or Shades Half Closed

Come Fall and Winter, any sunlight you can get during the day is a plus. It's a no-brainer that we feel our moods change with the weather and soaking up some rays is the easiest way to make you feel happier.

Go to Bed an Hour Early
Getty | Jose Luis Pelaez Inc

Go to Bed an Hour Early

You probably won't fall asleep right away, but letting your body know it's time to wind down for the night will make you feel much more well-rested come morning. You might even find yourself waking up earlier and feeling more productive (like having time to eat breakfast)!

Skip Social Media
Getty | Luis Alvarez

Skip Social Media

We're all guilty of reaching for our phones first thing in the morning to check emails, Facebook, or Instagram, but not grabbing your phone in the mornings can be a cathartic experience. FOMO no more.

Wake Up Next to Your Significant Other
Getty | Willie B. Thomas

Wake Up Next to Your Significant Other

While your SO might make you want to stay in bed forever and skip work altogether, waking up to your loved one is guaranteed to put a smile on your face.

Sleep on Your Back
Getty | Dougal Waters

Sleep on Your Back

Research shows this is the best sleeping position, so if you find yourself tossing and turning at night, try this position for an optimal good night's rest.

Wake Up 30 Minutes Earlier
Getty | skaman306

Wake Up 30 Minutes Earlier

Despite what you may think, the benefits of waking up earlier will have a huge effect on how the rest of your day goes.

Take a Shower
Getty | Maciej Toporowicz NYC

Take a Shower

There's nothing a good shower can't fix, especially with your favorite bath scents and oils.

Wear Sunglasses Before You Leave the House
Getty | Plume Creative

Wear Sunglasses Before You Leave the House

The sun makes you squint or frown, which can foster aggressive feelings and bring down your mood. So, wear your shades!

Drink Coffee
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Drink Coffee

Coffee plus sun equals instant feel-good vibes, so drink near a window or walk on the sunnier side of the street. Don't forget to wear sunglasses.

Read a Motivational Quote
Getty | Georgijevic

Read a Motivational Quote

Whether you look to Disney or these amazing women, an inspirational quote can help kick-start your day.

Sleep Naked
Getty | Dimitri Otis

Sleep Naked

Sleeping naked has a whole host of benefits, but basically you'll wake up feeling sexier and more rested, and you'll lose that belly fat.

Don't Eat Dinner Right Before Bed
Getty | d3sign

Don't Eat Dinner Right Before Bed

You'll avoid that bloated feeling that keeps you up all night and get better sleep. More sleep equals happier you.

Set Your Alarm to a Fun Tune
Getty | AleksandraNakic

Set Your Alarm to a Fun Tune

Change up your alarm tone because life's a lot better if you're waking up to a song by Beyoncé.

Treat Yourself Every so Often
Getty | Elizabeth Fernandez

Treat Yourself Every so Often

Don't be afraid to go for it with a sugary treat or drink some mornings! You'll wake with something to look forward to.