1. Give yourself time

My alarm goes off two hours before my classes each day so I have plenty of time to dedicate to myself. This is the only bit of free time I typically get, so it's worth it to me to get up and allow myself a peaceful two hours to start my day off great. Let's be clear: I am not one of those 5:45 am people. I wake up around 8:30 or 9:00 a.m. each day, and it's perfect. Figure out what works for you.

2. Sunlight

Aside from not rushing to get ready, my window is another reason I get up between 8:30 and 9:00 a.m. I never close my blinds at night, so when I wake up the sun is shining right on my pillow. Although occasionally blinding, it helps make my alarm feel more like a natural wake up than something I've forced myself to do. (But yes, I do sleep with sunglasses by my bed just in case).

3. Phone time

OK, I know it's not great to go on your phone first thing in the morning. But who am I kidding? I'm going to do it whether I schedule it or not, so I might as well pencil it in so I can stay on track. I give myself a half-hour in bed to satisfy my TikTok addiction, and then I get up with plenty of time to still enjoy the process of getting ready.

4. Skincare

Next, I go to the bathroom down the hall (yay communal dorm restrooms) to put in my contacts and brush my teeth. I also wash my face, and although I've switched most of my skincare to my nighttime routine, I always moisturize and put on SPF.

5. Ice Roller

This is a recent addition that has become a recent addiction. I bought a $10 Amazon Ice Roller and use it for a few minutes every morning, and it is a game changer. It is so refreshing and feels great to use, plus the cold helps me wake up. It also is great to reduce morning puffiness, and I look forward to it every morning.

6. Podcast

While I get ready, I always listen to an episode of my favorite podcast. It's a great way to stay entertained while retaining mobility (i.e. I can move around my room while I listen), and you start your day off by learning something new. I do need more recommendations, however, as I am about to exhaust every episode of Crime Junkie.

7. Clean up

Starting my day by cleaning up my space a little allows me to enjoy it more for the rest of the day. I always make my bed and just pick up anything off the floor. Nothing crazy, nothing extensive, but I give myself a clean slate for my new day.

8. Workout

This is absolutely nothing intense, but it's nice to get moving a little in the morning. I typically follow along with a ten minute, no equipment YouTube workout. However, if I'm not feeling like it I'll do a pilates video or just stretch. Anything to get my blood flowing a little, but this is my relaxing time so I never go too crazy.

9. Get ready

I absolutely love getting ready for the day. I pick out my outfit, brush my hair, and put on a little make up if I'm feeling like it. I just like to be able to dedicate time into my appearance because it is something that is entirely for me, and giving myself time to like how I look in a day will bring me joy.

10. Breakfast!

Finally, finish listening to your podcast over a nice little breakfast. I live in a dorm, so it's not always the easiest place to make a breakfast, but I will make microwave meals, get cereal, make oatmeal or go walk to grab a smoothie. Your body needs fuel, and if you're as busy as I am, it's not always clear when you'll get a lunch break. End your peaceful morning with a great breakfast, and you're off to the perfect start to your day.