1. Switch off all alarms and put your phone away
There's nothing worse than hitting that snooze button and getting shocked by your alarm 8 minutes later as a cruel punishment for being lazy. Switch off all those alarms and allow yourself to stay away from technology at the start of your day.
2. Open all your blinds and a window
Let in the sunlight and some fresh air. The sunlight and clean oxygen will help you to wake up faster.
3. Drink a glass of water with a slice of lemon
Kickstart your metabolism and start the day right with some lemon water. Do this before you have your first coffee to make sure you stay hydrated.
4. Make your bed
Your bed is most likely the largest thing in your bedroom. Having a made bed will help the rest of the room feel tidy, motivate you to clean the rest of the room, and get rid of temptation to dive back under the open covers.
5. Meditate (with or without calming music)
I like to meditate for 5-10 minutes when I wake up. In the past, I have been trained, but it is easy to train yourself at home. With or without music, sit in a chair for some time with your eyes closed, and focus on not focusing. Just let your mind clear without thinking about the rest of the day.
6. Listen to the Radio (News)
It's good to stay informed, and if you are too tired to read, radio news is a great thing to switch on while you carry out your other early morning activities.
7. Get squeaky clean
I like to start my day clean. Shower and brush your teeth before starting your day. Even if it is short, this process can help you to feel accomplished before you so much as sit down at a desk.
8. Make your schedule for the day, including small tasks to make it fun to use
I am a big fan of "to do" lists. Often I will have one list for before lunch, and one for after, so that the list does not feel overwhelming. Include small tasks like taking out the trash so that the list is easy to tick off. This will give you momentum and a sense of pride in your daily progress.
9. Make a creative breakfast
I love trying out new recipes, and am always looking to get creative at the beginning of the day. If you're not much of a cook, make a tasty smoothie or a tropical fruit salad.
10. Do one tedious task before you leave the house for work or class
Make that annoying call to your phone company, or return a faulty package. Do one of those things you've been dreading doing, one of those things that has been a nuisance playing on your mind for a few days. A stitch in time saves nine, so do one of these tasks before you start the more important parts of your day, and you'll start to clear the cobwebs from your life.
