Get ready for work in 15 minutes? You betcha.
It’s happened to us all. You had a late night with Netflix or hit snooze one too many times. Eek!
Now, you gotta get ready for work and be out the door in fifteen minutes.
Can it be done?
We say YES. We asked 13 working women for their tips on getting out the door quick smart.
Time your morning routine
“When you know that makeup takes five minutes and breakfast takes ten minutes, you’ll be easily able to decide what to do and what to skip. Most things take less time than you imagine.”
Julie Cliff, professional organiser, Space & Time
Put entire outfits together on hangers
“The full outfit on the one hanger, including leggings, undies, dress and jacket – the whole shebang. I can just grab it and I’m done!”
Gabrielle Flavin, part-time teacher and owner, Sticks & Stones Education
Technology timesavers
“I use Google Home to run through my day while I get dressed. It starts by saying ‘Good morning, time to win!’ It gets me pumped and excited for the day ahead.”
Ferial Reynolds, head of operations, Unwind Holidays
Use CC cream
“I swear by using a Colour Correcting cream with SPF as an all-in-one lightweight moisturiser, sunscreen and foundation. It cuts minutes out of my makeup routine in the morning which is essential when I’m in a rush.”
Celeste Robertson, founder, Natural Supply Co
Get lashes
“Eyelash extensions! My make up regime takes literally 20 seconds as it consists of combing my lashes and dusting on mineral powder. So easy.”
Carlie Maree, high performance coach, carliemaree.com
Plan for the week ahead
“I prep outfits for the whole week on Saturday morning because that allows me to totally relax, knowing my wardrobe is planned out for my 9-5 week. Since I’m obsessed with neutral minimalist fashion, my colour scheme is predominantly blacks, greys, browns, whites, and beiges, so matching and preparing outfits is super simple.”
Kaylyn Taylor, digital content writer, PS Frocks
Quick hairstyling
“There’s no time for hair styling, so I style a messy low bun (Meghan Markle style), then I’m out the door fast.”
Bernardine McLean, creative director, Liquid Agency
A speedy smoothie
“Preparing breakfast can eat up precious minutes, so I make a quick green smoothie with spinach, mint, celery, pineapple or banana, avocado and coconut water. It’s healthy, filling and easy to sip on during my commute.”
Anastasia Kelly, executive assistant recruiter, Altitude EA
Prepare the night before
“Scrambling for my purse, phone and keys is a huge time waster, so I make sure it’s all ready by the front door the night before.”
Jane Wilson, head of marketing & social, Fantastic Cleaners Melbourne
Get to work early
“I’ve realised it’s easier to get ready at work than at home with offspring continually knocking on the bathroom door. So I head to work bare-faced and get ready early before staff arrive.”
Janine Leghissa, owner, Desiderate Jewellery
Makeup in a rush
“I avoid eyeshadow and go for a bold lip colour that looks polished without taking too much time to apply. Plus, I confess I do my makeup in the car sometimes (only at the traffic lights)!”
Carly Susic, buyers advocate, Select Property Advocates
Time for yourself
“Playing guitar while everyone is rushing and asking me questions helps me stay calm and gives me a happy start for the day.”
Lisa Galea, director and graphic designer, Burning Love Creative
Wear black
“It saves so much time coordinating outfits. I wear lots of layers so if I haven’t checked the weather forecast I can change layers during the day.”
Lud Fedorovitch, florist, Pure Flowers
So, it seems that with a little ingenuity you certainly can get ready for work in just fifteen minutes. Plus, you can arrive looking styled and polished, too. Give it a try.