Your morning routine could be impacting your life more than you think. I’ve been consistent with my morning habits for the last 3 years and it’s changed my life. I’ve gotten much better at eliminating negative thoughts and controlling stress — just ask my college roommate. You don’t need to read a 300+ page book, spend money on cool toys, or waste your time with burdensome ideas. You want quick and simple ways to have a productive morning. Here are 5 tried and tested solutions that work:

1. Hydrate.

Drinking water first thing in the morning is incredibly important to increasing your energy level.

2. Wake up early enough for ‘me’ time.

Everyone is different. Some people are more productive in the morning, some people are more productive in the evening. If you wake up at 8 AM and go to bed at 1 AM, you can still be as productive as someone that wakes up at 5 AM and goes to bed at 10 PM. However, you want to have enough time to eat a breakfast, think about the rest of your day, and connect with your significant other/roommate/pet, etc. before leaving for the day.

3. Prepare the night before.

You don’t want to spend time trying to make minute decisions in the morning. One easy win is ironing your outfit the night before. Use your calendar on your phone and build in time for unexpected tasks — you’ll be much happier.

4. Get your mind right.

I meditate every morning before I do anything. If the first thing you do every morning is check emails, text messages, or Facebook comments, your mind will immediately start to get stressed. Instead, do something that clears your mind, allows you to think about the bigger picture in life, and appreciate what you have.

5. Get moving.

Get a morning workout, yoga lesson, or some physical activity done to help you move around and get your blood flowing. This will give you the motivation you need to attack your day.

Lastly, but not least, always make your bed and clean up after yourself:)

Comment with what you’re doing to have a successful morning!