Speedy Morning Routines
Mornings can be oddly demanding for a part of the day that’s supposed to be “just getting started.” It's even worse for the night owls who are especially slow and sluggish. But if you want to look put-together, feel awake, and leave on time without turning it into a full production, a few small systems go a long way. The goal here is not perfection; it’s less effort with better results. Here are five practical, low-energy upgrades that make your morning routine noticeably smoother.
1. Set Up a “Morning Basket” the Night Before
If you tend to be messy or lose track of your belongings, this one's for you. Create a designated spot that holds your everyday items: keys, wallet, earbuds, lip balm, and anything you need for the day. Prepare it at night so it’s ready to grab without thinking, helping you reduce frazzled decision-making and preventing last-minute searching.
2. Simplify Your Outfit Decisions
Spend way too long picking your clothes out in the morning? Instead, try building “default outfits” that you know look good and feel comfortable, then rotate them. Keep the core pieces clean, accessible, and grouped together so you’re not building an outfit from scratch every morning.
Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦 on Unsplash
3. Make Your Bathroom Routine a Two-Step Checklist
Girls tend to spend a lot of time in the bathroom, so to keep things quick and moving, decide on a minimal baseline routine that covers the essentials, such as cleanse + moisturize or brush + sunscreen, and keep it consistent. Store the exact products you use every day in the most reachable spot, and move “nice-to-have” items to a separate area. This will help you build a steady system.
4. Use Timers Instead of Willpower
Set one timer for “get ready” and another for “leave the house,” and follow them as best as you can. Pick a duration that’s realistic, then aim to beat it slightly rather than stretching it. If you tend to get distracted, put your phone on Do Not Disturb and keep it out of arm’s reach while you’re getting ready. No doomscrolling early in the morning!
5. Pre-Plan Breakfast and Coffee with Zero Assembly Options
Always keep two or three easy breakfast choices that require minimal effort, like yogurt cups, protein bars, overnight oats, or frozen breakfast sandwiches stocked up. If you prefer coffee or tea, set up your machine, mug, and supplies the night before so you only have one action in the morning.
