Rise and shine!
In today’s fast-paced world, every minute counts, especially in the mornings when you’re getting ready for work. The key to starting your day on a productive note is to optimise your morning routine, allowing you to get ready faster while still getting everything done.
One of the most effective ways to save time in the morning is to plan and prepare ahead of time. If there is anything you can do in advance, make sure it gets done before the morning.
Here are our 8 clever hacks gleaned from the most organised and effective people, to optimise your mornings and make sure you get out the door fed, dressed and ready for a productive work day!
1. Plan your outfit
Take a moment to plan what you are going to wear to work, at least the night before. Get out your clothes, shoes and any accessories you want to wear. Iron your clothes if they need it! If you are planning to wear a belt, find it and put it with your clothes. Think about your shoes and if you need socks or stockings to complete the outfit.
If you have the time during the weekend, you could even plan a full week of outfits in advance! Hang your work outfits in a separate section of the cupboard – one hanger for each day with shoes lined up underneath. Make sure everything is cleaned and pre ironed and ready to go, saving a whole heap of time every morning.
2. Pre-prepare all your food
Pre-pack your lunch and pre-plan your breakfast and take those decisions off your to-do list for the morning. Keep your breakfast simple for workdays. Something like cereal and milk, toast, or a pre-made frittata to ensure you stay focused on getting out the door on time. A protein shake could be a great option for days you are really running out of time.
3. Organise all your work gear
There is a lot of stuff we need to get ready for work, so save yourself the morning stress and get your work gear together the night before. Pack your work bag with all the essentials, including any necessary documents or electronic devices. Put these items together in an easy to find spot in your house so it is easy to grab and go in the morning.
4. Simplify your grooming routine
Work day mornings are not the time for extensive grooming techniques and complicated hairstyles, you will have to save those luxuries for your day off or holiday times! Here are some ideas to keep your morning grooming routine as brief as possible.
- Showers can be a serious time zap in the morning! If the shower often tricks you into thinking you have unlimited time, set a timer to snap yourself out of it and stay on track. Some grooming tasks could be done ahead of time, like washing your hair or shaving the night before. If washing your hair in the mornings is slowing you down, try incorporating dry shampoo into your routine for those days when you’re running low on time but still want your hair to look fresh.
- Styling your hair in elaborate up-dos or intricate braids every morning can be time-consuming. Instead, opt for simple and quick hairstyles that still look polished and professional. Consider classic hairstyles like a sleek ponytail, a low bun, or a quick and easy tousled look. Experiment with different hair accessories, such as headbands or hair clips, to add a touch of flair to your hairstyle without the need for extensive styling time.
- Embrace some time saving beauty hacks for work days. There are lots of multitasking products that can cut down your morning routine, such as a tinted moisturiser that combines hydration, SPF protection, and light coverage in one step. Opt for cream-based products that can be applied with your fingers, eliminating the need for brushes or sponges. Additionally, streamline your makeup routine by focusing on key features like your eyes or lips, rather than applying a full face of makeup every day.
5. Create a capsule wardrobe
Simplifying your wardrobe by creating a capsule wardrobe can save you valuable time in the morning. A capsule wardrobe consists of a curated collection of versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched easily. By having a selection of go-to outfits that you know look great together, you can eliminate the stress of decision-making in the morning and get ready faster without sacrificing style.
6. Automate your morning tasks
Leverage technology to automate certain morning tasks and save time. For example, set your coffee maker on a timer so that your favourite brew is ready and waiting for you when you wake up. Use smart home devices to control your lights, thermostat, and other electronic devices without leaving your bed. These small automations can make your mornings more efficient and allow you to focus on getting ready for work.
7. Minimise distractions
A 2023 report revealed that 69{be6fbf232b8d5a9fcee03b3fcec5b6e60740d0910a1738f24c5f51d9bd0bb57d} of smartphone users check their devices within the first five minutes of waking up in the morning! Be wary that distractions can significantly slow down your morning routine. To get ready faster, minimise distractions by setting boundaries. Avoid checking social media or emails until after you’ve completed your morning routine. If possible, designate a specific area of your home, such as a dedicated dressing space or vanity, where you can focus solely on getting ready for work without any unnecessary interruptions.
8. Practice time management techniques
Incorporating time management techniques into your morning routine can help you stay on track and get ready faster. For instance, use a timer to allocate specific amounts of time for each task. This will encourage you to stay focused and complete each task within the designated timeframe. You can also create a checklist or use a productivity app to keep track of your progress and ensure you don’t overlook any important steps.
By implementing these strategies into your morning routine, you can effectively streamline the process and get ready faster for work. Remember, it’s all about careful planning, organisation, and prioritisation. Find the methods that work best for you and make them part of your daily routine. With a little practice, you’ll be amazed at how much time and stress you can save, allowing you to start your workday feeling refreshed and prepared.