How to Optimize Your Morning Routine For Stress-Free School Days

Create a Productive Morning Routine to Cut Back on School Anxiety If you are struggling to make it out the door on time, feeling drowsy during your first three classes, or forgetting assignments at home, it may be time to rethink your morning routine. Many students make hitting the snooze button their default, but this usually isn’t the most effective way to kick-start your day. Start the new school year off on the right foot by revamping your morning routine with these organization strategies that are sure to help you feel on top of your game all day long! Write Out Tomorrow’s Agenda in the EveningMany schools have early start times, so putting off all your next-day planning until the morning is not always the best strategy for students. Instead of trying to remember everything on your to-do list immediately after waking up, set aside time in the evening to create an agenda for the following day. Make note of any upcoming deadlines, tests and quizzes, extracurricular activities, and college preparation work you have scheduled, as well as goals you have for yourself and important reminders. Shortly after waking up, review your agenda to make sure you are prepared for the day’s activities and to avoid forgetting any assignments or equipment you might need. Don’t Leave Packing for the Last MinuteIn addition to compiling your daily agenda, consider packing your bag and planning your outfit for the following day during the evening. Choosing clothes and setting up your backpack sound like quick tasks, but every minute counts on early weekday mornings. Lay out tomorrow’s clothes near your bed so they are ready to go for the following day and have every book and assignment you will need for classes and after school activities already in your bag or backpack. In the morning, double-check your bag to avoid forgetting anything important at home. Give Yourself Time In the MorningInstead of sleeping as much as possible and then frantically rushing out the door, give yourself time to wake up and reflect on the upcoming day in the morning. Set aside at least 30 minutes to one hour to review your agenda, double check your bag, get dressed, and eat breakfast before rushing out the door. Waking up slightly earlier will help you in the long-run, because you will feel more alert and prepared for the day by the time you walk into school. If possible, try to go to bed slightly earlier to avoid missing out on any quality sleep time. Make Your Morning Meal CountStrive to set aside at least 15 minutes to eat breakfast and potentially catch up with other members of your family. Choose a healthy, balanced meal that will provide you with sustained energy as opposed to picking up something last minute at a drive through or cafe. If possible, use this time to discuss your day with parents and/or siblings and review important items on your daily agenda. Leave Early for a Stress-Free CommuteBeing late can be stressful, especially if you have a test or quiz during your first class of the day. Avoid cutting it close by penciling in an extra 5-10 minutes of commute time to compensate for traffic, train or bus delays, or any other potential unanticipated transportation issues. If you happen to get to school early, take advantage of the time by catching up with friends, organizing your locker, or reviewing any important notes for the day. Revamping your morning routine can be an easy way to boost your productivity throughout the day and help you stay on track with your academics and college prep. If you are struggling to stay on top of all of your schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and college preparation timeline, you may want to consider reviewing your schedule with a parent, staff member at your school, or admissions counselor. Our team of expert counselors can help you create a plan of action and pinpoint which classes and after school activities you should prioritize throughout the year.