Mornings are tough for just about everyone.. even those so-called “morning people”. They’ve always been especially tough for me (as anyone who knows me well can attest to), but this year I decided I wanted things to be different. I know that it can be very challenging to break old habits and ways. I’ve spent my entire life staying up late doing homework and work and sleeping in until the very last minute, so this is a departure from the normal for me.

Lately I’ve been in a little bit of a funk, especially getting my days going. I needed something to change up my routine and get me more excited about starting the day off on a positive note. I took a step back and thought about the major things that drive me to get out of bed. They mostly revolve around food, more food, excitement about getting dressed, caffeine, and fun activities that day. You know.. those things that put a smile on your face.

In revisiting my morning routine and what gets me going I came up with a list of things that will hopefully help me hit snooze less than 5 times:

1. New skincare products

It sounds silly, but the excitement of new products (especially ones that really work) can make a huge difference in my morning routine. I’ve been using Clinique’s new pep start eye cream to brighten and hydrate my under eye area first thing in the morning. The best thing about getting hooked on something new is getting to see the results day after day improve!

2. New Breakfast + Coffee Game

Whether it’s getting up to start your day with breakfast at home, picking up an easy little machine like this Nespresso one that’s perfect for a small kitchen, or diverting to a different coffee shop en route to the subway the idea of new flavors gives a little extra incentive for me to crawl out of bed.

3. Statement Shoes

When in doubt, plan ahead and pull out a sassy pair of shoes that make you feel sexy and pulled together. Set them out the night before so that when you wake up you know what to center your outfit around. A little heel can instantly put more pep in your step and change the way you approach the day!

4. Make a healthy commitment

It can be as simple as going to work out 1-2 times a week, starting the day with a healthy breakfast, or spending less time on your computer and phone. Whatever it is, choosing something that improves your health will have positive effects on your entire week–not even just your mornings. Chobani Simply 100 is an easy and quick way to tackle the first step .. then it might be time to try a new workout class!

5. Take a detour

Set your alarm 10 minutes early and head out in a different direction than you normally would for work. If you drive, cruise around your neighborhood listening to music or pass through an area that you like and just spend a few minutes soaking in a new setting. I find that listening to music while I do this or just taking a few minutes to reflect on things I’m thankful for can make all of the difference in a day and worth that extra 10 minutes of sleep.

What about you? What do you do when you’re in need of a change to your morning routine?

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