Is Waking Up Early Actually Better?

Mackenzie Sheldon | Opinion editor

We’re no strangers to the late-night grind. We find ourselves scrolling through Instagram or finishing assignments at 2 a.m., only to hit snooze five times the next morning. We’ve all heard it: “Waking up early is better for you!” But is it really? For those of us who try to become early risers but never succeed, let’s dive into some reasons why waking up earlier could actually make a difference.

Benefits 

Improved Time Management

Waking up early allows for a more structured day. You can plan time to eat, hang with friends, get assignments in, and focus on personal time with more ease. Starting the day with a sense of purpose and determination can help us juggle academics and social life without feeling overwhelmed.

More Time for Productive Studying 

College life means heavy workloads, and waking up early gives students a jumpstart on the day. The morning can be the perfect time to study without distractions, review notes, or even get ahead on assignments. I have a routine where I study at night until I get tired and wake up a few hours early to continue studying. I memorize more content in the morning, and my mind and body feel refreshed. 

Reduced Stress and Better Mental Health

Having a calm morning routine can help reduce anxiety. Waking up early means you get to take the time to set a positive tone for your day, as opposed to rushing and feeling like you’re already behind. 

Better Sleep Habits

Establishing a consistent wake-up time can help your body regulate. If you’ve ever pulled an all-nighter, you know how out of place you feel throughout the rest of your day. Getting back into a regular sleep schedule is tough. Waking up early consistently helps your body get into a routine. However, you can’t just wake up early and expect magic to happen if you’re not getting enough sleep. If you wake up at 6 a.m. but go to bed at 2 a.m., you’re setting yourself up for exhaustion. Lack of sleep negatively impacts your focus, mood, and health. Sleep is non-negotiable, no matter how early you wake up. The key is balance: make sure you’re getting enough sleep, or your productivity will suffer. Try to get around 7 hours of sleep, especially if you have early classes. 

Tips

Plan Your Day the Night Before

Prep for success by setting out your clothes, meal prepping, or organizing assignments the night before. When you wake up, you’ll already have a plan in place, saving you time and stress.

Start Gradually

If you’re used to waking up late, don’t try to force a drastic change. Start waking up 15–30 minutes earlier each day until it feels more natural. Gradual shifts allow your body to adjust without shock.

Create a Morning Routine

A calm, purposeful morning can set the tone for your entire day. Find a routine that works for you and helps you start the day with a sense of accomplishment. Even cooking yourself breakfast every morning is a good morning routine.

Use Your Morning for High-Priority Tasks

When your brain is fresh and alert, use that time to tackle the most important tasks. Studying for exams, finishing assignments, or working on projects can be much more effective in the morning than trying to cram later in the day.

For us students, waking up early can improve productivity, enhance time management, and promote better mental health. However, it’s only beneficial if paired with solid sleep habits and balanced scheduling. It’s not about waking up at the crack of dawn for the sake of it, it’s about finding what works for you. The key is to figure out your own rhythm and make sure you’re prioritizing both your academic and personal well-being. Balance is everything.

So, is waking up early really better for you? I think so! But like all things, it’s about finding what makes you feel your best. Try these methods if you are someone who feels they may thrive in the morning!