Would you rather: sleep in or be totally ready for the day? How about both? Photo courtesy of Chris Bear.If you're like me, hitting the snooze button on your alarm three or more times when you wake up and the phrase "10 more minutes" has become apart of your morning routine. Whatever happened to birds chirping, fresh new air and a day full of new possibilities to get you excited to get out of bed? Coffee has become my savior, but some days it is just not enough.
Imagine if you could add 15 more minutes to your sleep and actually have a chance to enjoy this time — and still get as much done.
Here are some tips and tricks to make the process of getting ready in the morning much more relaxed and enjoyable, so you have more time for you and maybe even more shut eye:
1. Organize Stay organized. Make sure your closet, shower and cosmetics are organized and ready for you when you need them and don't have to waste your time locating them. Even go one step further by making sure your backpack and/or purse is ready and organized for you to walk out the door. How many times have you searched for your keys? Make sure they have a special spot as well.
2. Prepare by having outfits ready Take 20 minutes out of your Sunday evening to organize your closet and prepare outfits for the next week. You will thank yourself in the long run! Also, it's not a bad idea to have a few go-to dresses. Ladies, this could mean a simple dress, and fellas, this could mean a pair of jeans and a T-shirt.
3. Eat breakfast Make sure you eat something. You have heard the old saying breakfast is the most important meal of the day; it's true. Breakfast will nourish you and give you energy to think more clearly so the process of getting ready will go smoother.
4. Wrinkle Releaser Invest in wrinkle releaser. You can find it at your local pharmacy, and it takes wrinkles out of clothes like magic. Don't waste your time pulling out an iron and waiting for it to heat up. Instead just spray this a few times on your clothing and it will have the same effect — promise.
5. Create a playlist Let your music keep you on track. Create a playlist that is upbeat and ensures a good day. Start playing the second you wake up, and keep track of time by how many songs have played.
6. Multi-task Keep a toothbrush and face wash in the shower. While you are lathering up with soap you can brush your teeth and wash your face.
7. Make a list the night before If you are worried you are going to forget something make a list of everything you need. This will ensure an anxiety-free sleep, and you will have something to reference to... besides your sleepy head.
8. Start fresh Forget about what happened yesterday and start today with a new intention and positive thoughts.
Let me know if you have any ideas for upcoming stories at gmnelson@asu.edu
