How to Create a Fast Morning Routine for Getting Ready

Without a plan, your morning routine can add valuable minutes to your schedule. If you've noticed that you've been getting out the door later and later in the morning--or you've become more frazzled--consider putting some order to the process of getting ready every day. Get control of your morning ritual so that you have an excellent start to the day.

Things You'll Need

• Alarm clock
• Dry erase board
• Dry erase markers
• Notepad
• Pen

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Instructions

• 1

  Prepare as much as you can the night before. Pack your lunch, your workbag and gym bag. Simplify your breakfast plans and arrange for meals to be prepared ahead of time. Choose items that don't require a lot of time to prepare such as cereal, a bagel or yogurt. Place utensils out and know exactly what you'll be making for the morning. Plan your outfit the night before so that you're not pondering what you'd like to wear; this includes ironing.

• 2

  Set your alarm to wake you up every morning even if you tend to be able to wake up on your own at the same time every morning. Place the alarm clock across the room so that you have to get up out of bed to turn it off. Get an efficient start to your day by starting your routine quickly without lingering around or sleeping in a few more minutes.

• 3

  Make multitasking a part of your morning regimen. Pop your breakfast in the microwave while you're in the shower. Brush your teeth while listening to the weather. Get dressed while listening to the traffic report or your mandatory news updates. Enlist help from other members of your household who are a part of the process by asking kids to dress themselves and fill their own cereal bowls while you get dressed. Ask an older child to assist younger ones with getting breakfast ready.

• 4

  Create an out-the-door checklist. Keep a notepad or dry erase board near the door so that you can glance over it to be sure you have everything you need before you head out. Include everything from your gym shoes to the kids' after-school activity equipment. If you're working on a special report from work and need to go to the copy shop or post office, also include those errands on your checklist that you need to complete before going in to work.