Early morning classes: where would we be without them? Answer: probably still in bed. While morning courses may not be ideal for most, they’ve definitely got a few upsides (like prompting oneself out of bed for an 8 a.m. class and thus procuring a productive head start). Nonetheless, the time between getting up and getting into that classroom is usually not sufficient for us to be fed, dressed, and awake enough for that day’s demands. Fortunately, with enough forethought and just the right amount of sleep, there are a few methods to accommodate the shortage of time allotted in those mornings. Here are 10 time-saving hacks to do the night before early morning classes.
How many times has the alarm gone off without us hopping out of bed? While waking up is never a pleasant experience (and ignoring the alarm can will only cause wasted time), hitting the sack a little earlier can make getting up a bit easier. Try to go to bed before 10:30 p.m., as you’re likely to still get about eight hours of sleep with that time frame even with an early morning class. Need a more concrete rule to go by? However long you’re prone to sleep in (30 minutes, 1 hour), go to bed that much earlier. For example, if you tend to hit snooze at 7 a.m. and wake up again at 7:45, close your eyes around 9:45 to be sure you’ll be as energized as possible. Sweet dreams!
While filling your backpack with your planner, notebooks, pens, and wallet may seem like second-nature, it’s surprising how many times morning grogginess can cause us to forget these key items. If you take a couple of minutes to pack your essentials the night before, you could drag yourself out of bed, take a quick shower, grab your things and head to class without a worry in the world (that is, unless you forgot to study for the quiz). During this time, you can also prep for any unintended emergencies and slip in a needle and thread, on-the-go stain remover, and sanitary products.
With the prospect of three hours being stuck in a lecture room in the early morning, you’re bound to get a little drowsy. But a nutritious breakfast will give you the necessary energy to power through! Simply get out your favorite Tupperware and pre-make a meal with protein, carbs, and a fruit or vegetable. Our personal favorite combo is hash browns, bacon, and berries. Either eat super quickly or bring your food to eat in class or during break. Pro tip: if you’ve got the ingredients, try prepping an entire week’s worth of breakfasts on Sunday night. Your sanity (and your appetite) will thank you!
Whether you’re a credit card lover or more of a cash girl, you’re bound to spend money on something at some point during the day of your morning classes (what can we say… college life is unpredictable). Save yourself the mental energy and time of deciding how much you should spend while you’re impulse buying a Frappucino and instead allot yourself a budget the night before. It might even be helpful to give yourself an incentive, such as: If I can get through this class, ask questions, and come back on time after breaks, I’ll treat myself to a smoothie.
Bedhead is real, everyone. But not having an hour to wash, dry, and style your hair shouldn’t stop you from making it look lovely! The night before your class, spray your hair with plenty of dry shampoo and either braid it or leave it down. In the morning, you’ll have a voluminous ‘do with minimal greasiness. Just brush and style in a high ponytail or clip back and you’re set!
Never underestimate the power of a pen and some paper! Making your to-do list the night before an important day will make you so much more accountable to actually carry out those tasks than if you just mentally take note of them. Plus, slowing down and taking beautiful notes can prove very relaxing. You may even try journaling as a bedtime ritual. It’s a great alternative to scrolling through Instagram late at night.
Unless you’re one of the lucky college students who owns a Keurig machine, brewing coffee (or getting a latte) may take at least a few minutes of your time. If you brew the night before and keep your Java in a carafe, you can heat up a cup for a minute in the microwave or serve iced with some creamer (you could also try cold brewing your own coffee). If you really must have your morning cup from a shop, opt for a house brew (which you can get the moment you order it) and mobile order if possible.
Although rummaging through your makeup bags may not take all that much time, it certainly puts unnecessary stress on you before your class. By having a simple, pretty makeup look and putting out the supplies you’ll need for it the night before, you can truly rock an effortless makeup look. Our favorite quick look? A bit of eyeliner, mascara, blush, and lip color. Lovely!
T.V. is a great way to unwind after a long day. But during the school week, it might be better in small doses during the day (sorry). When it comes closer to bedtime, develop a personal standard for screen time, set the screen to “night mode” (the warmer shade is easier on your eyes), and turn off your device about an hour before heading to bed. If you’re still not ready for bed, try reading a book or taking a warm bath to unwind.
Whatever your belief system, being grateful for your blessings and reflecting on what you did well or not so well that day (examining your conscience) will prove tremendously helpful in both helping you get some restful sleep and preparing for a fruitful day in the morning.
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