About a year ago I got one of those alarm clocks that slowly light up to simulate the sun rise, and that’s been a game changer. I wake up so much easier and feel less groggy when I do.

Highly recommend

I have an alarm clock / noise machine combo and I love it. I prefer a phone-free bedroom to reduce distraction opportunities. I also completely agree that phone wake-up sounds are just far too aggressive. All it takes for me to wake up is having it change from “brown noise” to “ocean waves” and I’m awake immediately.