After staying up late to finish homework or study for an exam, mornings can feel like a hurtle. As students, our days can feel daunting when we first wake up and are forced to think about all the tasks we need to complete. Fortunately, having a strong morning routine can help curb this academic anxiety.
Not sure where to get started? Here’s a guide to making the most of your mornings and setting yourself up for a successful day.
- Hydrate
Staying hydrated is important for both your mind and body. By having a glass of water each morning, you are contributing to your daily fluid intake and helping prevent headaches before they occur. Staying hydrated is also a great way to stay healthy, especially during flu season. If drinking a full glass of water seems unappealing, try adding a slice of lemon or an electrolyte powder for flavor. - Eat breakfast
Many college students skip this step, but breakfast is widely known as the most important meal of the day. Even if you’re not hungry, scrambling a couple of eggs or grabbing a granola bar on your way out the door will help fuel your body and prevent stress headaches from occurring. Eating fuels your body, improves your mood, and allows you to think more clearly. - Practice self-care
Set aside a few minutes each morning to do something that brings you peace before working through the chaos of the day.
Sarah Anderson, a senior homeland security student, likes to start her mornings on the beach. She commented, “Each morning I take five minutes to head down to the beach and watch the waves. Listening to the waves crash is soothing before a busy day. Then, I make myself a cup of tea to enjoy while I’m getting ready.”
Some other self-care suggestions include journaling, taking a shower, doing a skincare routine, reading, or meditating. - Get dressed
According to Merrick’s Art, getting dressed helps boost your self-esteem, prevents you from feeling lazy, and improves your mood. By changing out of your pajamas, you are setting a clear starting point for the day ahead rather than just rolling out of bed. When you feel confident in your outfit, you will be in a better mood, thus increasing productivity. Getting dressed also allows you to express your personal style. - Get moving
The American Psychological Association reports that active people are more productive, relaxed, and in better moods than inactive people. Whether it’s an intense workout or a stroll around campus, movement in the morning can help increase your energy.
Angela Maglio, a senior business student, takes a walk each morning to start her day. She explained, “Getting moving in the morning really helps me wake up and get things flowing so I’m energized for the day. Usually, it’s a walk on the boardwalk and a chance to be by myself and relax.”
Even if all you have time for is five minutes of stretching, getting your blood flowing is a great way to stay in tune with your body and avoid fatigue. - Make a to-do list
As college students, it’s hard to keep all of our tasks in order. Take time each morning to write a to-do list that includes class times, meetings, work, assignments, and anything else that you need to complete for the day. By writing down your tasks, you can prioritize activities and strategize ways to accomplish your goals. Apps like Apple Notes, Microsoft To-Do, or Google Tasks can help you get organized if you prefer digital planning. Planning ahead at the end of your morning can aid in your transition from relaxation to productivity.
By taking the time to build a structured morning routine, you are prioritizing yourself and your success, leading to a happier, healthier, and hopefully better day, week, and semester.
