Free time is a rare commodity among university students. While balancing classes, jobs, exercise, a social life, eating and sleeping, it’s hard to find time for yourself. This can mean limited time in the morning to do your hair, apply some makeup and eat a good breakfast. Though it feels like we don’t have any extra time, there is a way to do it quickly and easily.
Beat the clock for breakfast
Eggs are an easy and tasty meal to mix up in the morning. Crack a few into a mug, add your favourite meat, veggies or cheese (or all three) and throw it in the microwave for one minute. Now you have a protein-filled breakfast that didn’t even take five minutes to make.
Oatmeal is easy and versatile. Pour some plain oats into a bowl, add milk or water and your favourite fruit, nuts or syrups. For a seriously sweet breakfast, add maple syrup and brown sugar and microwave for one minute and thirty seconds.
Preparing your lunch and dinner early saves you time and money. Rice and veggies are easy to cook up a couple nights in advance, toss on some soy sauce and you’ve got a delicious meal. If you don’t have time to cook, the frozen entrée aisle of the grocery store offers some delicious and affordable meals.
Make up for lost time
The first tip for getting ready quickly is to shower in the morning. Showering at night can leave you with a wild hairdo that requires more work than letting it air-dry. Using a leave-in conditioner or curl cream keeps your hair from getting frizzy throughout the day. Add a scrunchie and you can rock a ponytail like it’s 1990.
BB cream is a university student’s best friend. For the days where you want some coverage or a subtle glow, they enhance your complexion without looking or feeling heavy. They also hydrate the skin, protecting you from the elements as you wait for the bus or walk to class.
Powder foundations are another great complexion product. Lightweight and easy to use, they go on with the swipe of a brush and offer light coverage. They’re easy to toss in your bag and bring with you in case you need a touch-up.
Tinted lip balms hydrate your lips and give them a lively flush. They stay on no matter how much coffee you drink and keep your lips from getting crusty during harsh winters. Best of all, you don’t need to find a mirror to apply them.
Dress for success
Putting together outfits can be complicated, but there are ways to stay on top of the latest styles without spending too much time, or money on your wardrobe.
Basic shirts like plain T-shirts, long-sleeve shirts and sweaters are vital to your closet. Throw them on under a vest, denim jacket or cardigan and you’ve got a perfectly pulled together look. The best part about basics is their versatility, so you can wear them with different things without being an outfit repeater like Lizzie McGuire.
Boots are your best friend. Wearable fall through spring, a pair of low or high boots are a good match for every outfit. Something water proof will keep you dry during the rain and warm in the winter while still looking cute with jeans, leggings and skirts.
Whether you have a busy class schedule, a demanding job, or just prefer to sleep as late as possible, these life hacks can help you save time in the morning and leave as much you-time as you need.
