Wake Up Happy: Your That Girl Morning Routine Guide

Mornings. They’re either your best friend or your sworn enemy, right? If you’re anything like me, you’ve scrolled through TikTok, mesmerized by those That Girl morning routines—flawless skin, matcha lattes, and yoga in golden sunlight. Meanwhile, I’m over here hitting snooze and tripping over my dog. But here’s the tea: You don’t need to be perfect to wake up happy. A That Girl morning routine is about feeling good, not faking it for the ‘gram. I’ve spent years tweaking my mornings, and I’m spilling my secrets to help you craft a routine that’s equal parts vibey and doable. Ready to become that girl in your own way? Let’s dive into this 1,500-word guide to a morning routine that’ll have you leaping out of bed (or at least not hating it).

Step 1: Prep the Night Before (Yes, Really)

Want to wake up happy? Start the night before. I know, I know—planning ahead sounds like something your mom would nag you about. But trust me, a little nighttime prep is like giving your morning self a high-five. I used to wake up to a sink full of dishes and zero clean socks. Not exactly “That Girl” energy.

Tidy up quick. Spend 5-10 minutes straightening your space. A clean kitchen counter or a made bed? Instant mood-lifter come morning.
Pick your outfit. Lay out your clothes—whether it’s a cute athleisure set or your fave jeans. I started doing this last year, and it’s like my brain thanks me for one less decision at 7 a.m.
Set your intentions. Jot down tomorrow’s top priority. It could be “crush that meeting” or “don’t cry at yoga.” Keeps you focused.

Why set yourself up for chaos? A tiny bit of effort at night means you wake up to calm, not a crime scene. IMO, it’s the ultimate self-care hack.

Step 2: Wake Up Gently

Nothing screams I hate my life like a blaring alarm that sounds like a fire drill. If you want to wake up happy, ease into the day like the radiant queen you are. I used to be a chronic snooze-button masher, but switching to a gentler wake-up changed everything.

Get a sunrise alarm clock. These babies mimic natural light, waking you up like you’re in a serene meadow (not a war zone). I got one for $30, and it’s my morning MVP.
Ditch the phone. Don’t scroll X first thing—it’s a happiness vampire. I keep my phone across the room to force myself out of bed. Sneaky but effective.
Hydrate immediately. Chug a glass of water before coffee. It’s like hitting the refresh button on your body. Bonus: Add lemon for extra that girl points.

Ever notice how a harsh wake-up makes you grumpy all day? A gentle start is like whispering to your soul, “You got this.” Try it. You’ll feel the difference.

Step 3: Move Your Body (But Keep It Fun)

“That Girl” doesn’t roll out of bed and immediately run a marathon. She moves her body in a way that feels good, not like punishment. I used to think I had to do burpees at dawn to be “healthy.” Spoiler: I hated it. Now, I pick movement that sparks joy, and it’s a game-changer.

Stretch or yoga. A 10-minute flow on YouTube wakes up your muscles without breaking a sweat. I do a quick sun salutation, and my back stops yelling at me.
Dance it out. Crank your favorite bop and have a mini dance party. My go-to is anything Beyoncé—suddenly, I’m slaying my living room.
Walk if you can. A quick stroll around the block with your dog or a podcast? Pure bliss. I take my mutt, Luna, out, and we both come back happier.

Why force yourself into workouts you dread? Find movement that makes you smile, and you’ll actually stick with it. Happiness guaranteed.

Step 4: Fuel Up with Intention

Breakfast isn’t just food—it’s a vibe. “That Girl” doesn’t scarf down a stale granola bar while running out the door (been there, though). She fuels her body with something that feels nourishing and looks cute enough to post. My breakfast game used to be nonexistent, but now it’s my favorite part of the morning.

Keep it simple but pretty. Think overnight oats with berries or avocado toast with a sprinkle of chili flakes. I make a smoothie bowl with frozen bananas and granola—tastes like dessert, looks like art.
Sip something special. Matcha, coffee, or a turmeric latte—pick a drink that feels like a treat. I’m a coffee stan, and grinding my beans fresh makes me feel like a barista.
Eat mindfully. Sit down, no phone, and enjoy your food. I started eating at my kitchen table instead of my couch, and it’s weirdly grounding.

What’s the rush? A thoughtful breakfast sets the tone for a happy day. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that’s basically a photo op?

Step 5: Get Your Mind Right

A happy morning isn’t just about your body—it’s about your brain, too. “That Girl” has a mental glow-up before she even steps outside. I used to wake up stressing about my to-do list, but adding a quick mind-focused ritual has me feeling like I can handle anything (even Monday meetings).

Journal like a boss. Write down three things you’re grateful for or a quick brain dump. I started gratitude journaling last spring, and it’s like a warm hug for my anxiety.
Meditate for a hot sec. Even 2 minutes of deep breathing works wonders. I use a free app and pretend I’m a zen monk. Fake it ‘til you make it, right?
Affirm your awesomeness. Say something nice to yourself in the mirror. I tell myself, “You’re a badass,” and yeah, it feels cheesy, but it works.

Why let your mind run wild with stress? A quick mental reset is like giving your brain a latte—perky and ready to go. FYI, you deserve that inner peace.

Step 6: Look the Part (No Filter Needed)

Okay, let’s talk glow. “That Girl” doesn’t need a full glam squad to look put-together—she just knows how to fake it ‘til she makes it. I’m not saying you need to contour at 8 a.m., but a little effort goes a long way toward feeling happy and confident.

Skincare is non-negotiable. Cleanse, moisturize, and slap on SPF. My 3-step routine takes 2 minutes, and my skin thanks me by not staging a breakout.
Dress with intention. Even if you’re working from home, swap pajamas for something cute. I throw on a cozy sweater and leggings, and suddenly I’m CEO of my couch.
Add one signature touch. A slick ponytail, a bold lip, or dangly earrings—pick one. I’m obsessed with my claw clip; it’s like my hair’s saying, “I tried.”

Ever catch yourself in the mirror and think, “Dang, I’m cute”? That’s the goal. Looking good makes you feel good, and that’s half the battle.

Putting It All Together

So, there you have it—your guide to a That Girl morning routine that’ll make you wake up happy. Prep the night before, wake up gently, move your body, eat with intention, clear your mind, and serve a little look. It’s not about being perfect or copying some influencer’s life. It’s about small, intentional habits that make you feel like the main character.

I’ll be honest: Some days, my routine is more “That Hot Mess” than “That Girl.” Dog hair on my yoga mat, coffee spilled on my journal—you get it. But even on those days, I try one or two of these steps, and it’s enough to shift my mood. Maybe you start with a sunrise alarm or a quick stretch. Maybe you go full-on and transform your mornings into a cinematic masterpiece. Either way, you’re building a routine that screams you.

What’s holding you back? Why not try one step tomorrow? A happy morning isn’t a myth—it’s a choice. And trust me, you’re already that girl. You just need a routine to remind you.