Samaira Bangatufts university, Tufts University · startups and sidequests

3 Alarm Clock Mistakes Stopping You From Waking Up Early

22 Feb 2023 · 1 min

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In this brief instructional video, the hosts identify three common habits that sabotage early waking and offer practical fixes. First, they explain that setting multiple alarms trains the brain to accept snoozing, so they advise using a single alarm to compel a single, decisive wake‑up. Second, they point out that keeping the alarm device (often a phone) within arm’s reach encourages immediate snoozing; they recommend placing the alarm across the room so the sleeper must physically get up, which helps them become more alert. Third, they caution against using a phone as the alarm because its screen light and notifications trigger the urge to check messages and suppress melatonin; they suggest using a dedicated alarm clock and keeping the phone out of the bedroom. The video concludes with a call‑to‑action inviting viewers to join a “5 AM challenge,” with details in the caption.

3 alarm clock mistakes that are stopping you from waking up early.
Number 1, setting too many alarms. But we don't realize that we're unconsciously giving our brain the command that it's okay to snooze multiple times before waking up. Instead, set just one alarm and give your mind the command that it has to wake up in one go.
Mistake number 2, keeping your alarm too close to you. Many of us set the alarm but place our phone right next to us. When it buzzes in the morning, we feel an urge to immediately snooze. Instead, place your alarm across from where your bed is. You'll be forced to get out of your bed to turn it off. And once you get out of the bed, you're already half awake.
Mistake number 3: Using your phone as alarm. Then there's a natural urge to check messages, emails, but the light emitted by your phone doesn't let your brain generate the sleep hormone. Instead, keep your phone outside your bedroom and use an alarm clock like this, which you can keep beside you.
If you want to wake up without an alarm clock altogether, join us for the 5 AM challenge. You'll find the details in the caption below.