We all know the routine: set seven alarms before bed, grudgingly snooze the first six, then finally build up the nerve to get out of your warm and cozy bed. Snoozing your first 6 alarms may seem like a good idea at the time, but what are those extra 15 minutes of sleep really going to do for you? Waking up early can make the difference of fitting in your morning work out, getting that extra studying in before your big test, or even just making it to work on time. Early mornings suck, whether they’re for class, work, or just your average doctor’s appointment, but it’s time to learn how to get through them.

morning person

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Plan your breakfast ahead of time

morning person

Photo courtesy of @forkuniversity on Instagram

I’m not the only one who’s motivated by food, right? Mornings suck, but breakfast doesn’t. Planning your breakfast ahead of time is a great way to push yourself out of bed in the morning (and if you don’t eat breakfast – that’s your first mistake). Check out these 15 make-ahead breakfast recipes if you know you won’t have time in the morning.

Wake up after your first alarm

morning person

Photo by Josie Persson

Better yet, try to wake up without an alarm. If you wake up a little before your alarm goes off, your body might be telling you that you got enough sleep. Check out this article to learn more. Setting 10 alarms might be necessary if you stayed up until 3 am studying, but if possible it is always best to wake up on the first alarm. Trust me, waking up for the second time is even worst than waking up for the first.

Don’t check your phone

morning person

Photo courtesy ofahchealththenews.com

Checking your phone in the morning is just another thing keeping you in bed. If you really feel the need to check your Instagram or Facebook in the morning, set a goal to do it after you’ve already gotten up and moving (unless you’re checking your email to see if class is canceled, because sometimes life is good to us).

Drink coffee or lemon water

morning person

Photo courtesy of @stylecusp on Instagram

Coffee might seem like a go-to for most of us, but you’d be surprised how many people don’t like coffee. Lemon water is not only easier than coffee, but also has more benefits. Check them out here.

Pack ahead of time

morning person

Photo by Max Bartick

Mornings are hard enough even when you’re not rushing. Try packing your backpack or work bag the night before to save yourself time in the morning. You can even try these healthy portable lunches you can make ahead of time.

Listen to music

morning person

Gif courtesy of giphy.com

Listening to music in the morning is a great way to get you up and help you stay up. You can even try using your favorite song as your alarm sound, that way your mornings will always start off happy. Seriously, music has its benefits.

Let some light in

morning person

Photo courtesy of believeboldy.com

Living in a black hole might seem like a good idea, but it’s time to let in some light. Not only will it help you adjust before you step outside, but it will also help regulate your internal clock. Learn more about sunlight and sleep here.