I Let TikTok Choose My Daily Routine for 5 Days

Monica Gray - July 12, 2025

TikTok isn’t just about viral dances and catchy tunes—it’s become a hub for lifestyle inspiration and daily routines that promise productivity, wellness, and fun. With millions tuning in to try out the latest “that girl” morning rituals or 5-to-9 night routines, I found myself wondering: Could these trends really make a difference? For five days, I let TikTok entirely dictate my daily schedule, from breakfast choices to bedtime rituals, fully embracing the unexpected. What followed were surprises, some challenges, and valuable lessons I never anticipated.

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1. Waking Up to Viral Alarm Sounds

My mornings began with whatever trending TikTok alarm sound was making waves that day—everything from energetic pop snippets to quirky remixes. I immediately noticed a difference: the upbeat tunes jolted me awake with far more enthusiasm than my boring old beeps ever did. Instead of groggy frustration, I felt genuinely energized. For anyone curious about how sound can affect your wakefulness, check out this Sleep Foundation article for deeper insights.

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2. Following a 10-Minute Skincare Routine

Next, I tackled a 10-minute skincare routine lifted straight from TikTok’s beauty gurus. The regimen included gentle cleansing, hydrating serums, moisturizer, and, of course, sunscreen—products I’d previously overlooked. Compared to my rushed approach before, I saw a noticeable boost in skin hydration and a healthy glow after just a few days. Curious about expert-approved routines? Visit the American Academy of Dermatology for science-backed skincare guidance.

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3. Trying the Whipped Coffee (Dalgona) Trend

On Day 1, TikTok’s famous Dalgona coffee became my morning ritual. Whipping instant coffee, sugar, and water into a fluffy, caramel cloud took time—way more than my usual coffee prep—but sipping the sweet, airy result felt like a luxurious treat. While not practical for rushed mornings, it was certainly a delightful change. Interested in making your own? Check out BBC Good Food for a step-by-step guide.

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4. Following a TikTok-Recommended Workout

One morning, I dove into a 20-minute HIIT workout popularized by TikTok fitness influencers. The session was packed with energetic music, fast-paced intervals, and exercises that required no equipment—think jumping squats, mountain climbers, and burpees. Compared to my old gym routines, these workouts felt more engaging and surprisingly accessible right at home. If you’re interested in similar routines, check out Healthline’s workout guide for more inspiration.

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5. Making an Aesthetic Breakfast Bowl

Inspired by TikTok, I swapped my usual cereal for a vibrant smoothie bowl topped with fresh fruit and crunchy granola. Following popular tutorials, I arranged everything in colorful patterns, making breakfast feel more like an experience than a routine. The extra effort paid off—it was not only delicious but also worthy of a spot on my Instagram feed. Want to try your own? Browse creative ideas at Delish’s smoothie bowl recipes.

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6. Dressing According to the ‘Outfit of the Day’ Hashtag

Each morning, I scrolled through TikTok’s #OOTD posts and curated my look based on trending styles. This meant stepping outside my comfort zone: I experimented with bolder colors, creative layering, and accessories I’d typically overlook. Compared to my usual go-to basics, these outfits felt more expressive and boosted my confidence throughout the day. Looking for your own style inspiration? Check out Vogue’s guide to stay ahead of the fashion curve.

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7. Journaling with Guided Prompts

I incorporated guided journaling prompts from TikTok wellness creators into my daily routine.
These prompts focused on gratitude, personal growth, and setting intentions, which made my reflections more meaningful than my usual freeform journaling. I noticed a genuine boost in mindfulness and clarity each day. If you’re seeking inspiration, explore Psychology Today for a variety of thoughtful journaling prompts.

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8. Preparing Viral TikTok Lunch Recipes

For lunch, I dove into viral TikTok recipes like the famous baked feta pasta and clever tortilla wrap hacks.
These dishes were not only simple to make but also packed with flavor, making midday meals far more exciting than my standard sandwich. The variety kept things interesting and inspired me to be more creative in the kitchen. Want to try these yourself? Get started with New York Times Cooking’s baked feta pasta.

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9. Midday Dance Breaks with TikTok Challenges

Instead of my typical midday slump, I set aside a few minutes for TikTok dance challenges. Following trending routines, even as a beginner, was both energizing and surprisingly fun. These spontaneous dance breaks boosted my mood and focus, making the rest of the workday feel lighter and more productive. I highly recommend giving it a try—no dance experience required! For some inspiration, check out Insider’s TikTok dance compilation and pick your favorite challenge.

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10. Engaging in a DIY Craft Project

One afternoon, I embraced TikTok’s crafty side and tackled a DIY project—tie-dyeing a shirt and painting a mug. The hands-on activity was both relaxing and rewarding, offering a welcome break from screens and passive downtime. I ended up with unique, personalized items and a real sense of accomplishment. Looking to get creative yourself? Explore Good Housekeeping for a variety of fun DIY craft ideas.

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11. Trying a TikTok-Recommended Snack Hack

When snack time rolled around, I put TikTok snack hacks to the test—like the refreshing “nature’s cereal” (a mix of fruit and coconut water) and baked oats. These creative options felt lighter and much healthier than my usual processed snacks. They were easy to prepare and surprisingly satisfying, turning a simple break into something special. Want to experiment with your own snacks? Check out BuzzFeed’s TikTok snack roundup for more tasty ideas.

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12. Taking an Aesthetic Study or Work Break

Inspired by TikTok’s #studywithme trend, I transformed my workspace into a visually pleasing, clutter-free zone. Adding soft lighting, plants, and organized supplies made study and work breaks feel more intentional and rejuvenating. This simple shift boosted my focus and motivation far more than my usual scattered setup. For more tips on creating your own productive workspace, explore Forbes’ productivity guide.

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13. Practicing Self-Care with Viral Relaxation Techniques

In the evenings, I tried viral self-care routines from TikTok, including soothing face masks and short guided meditations. Setting aside time for these practices left me feeling noticeably calmer and more balanced, especially compared to days when I’d skip self-care altogether. The intentional relaxation made a real difference in my mood and stress levels. Interested in adding self-care to your routine? Browse Mayo Clinic’s guide for accessible ideas.

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14. Taking a Technology Detox Hour

Inspired by TikTok’s digital detox trend, I dedicated one hour each day to unplug—no phone, no screens, just offline activities like reading or walking. The break made me feel more present and noticeably reduced my sense of digital fatigue compared to my usual routine of endless scrolling. If you’re curious about the benefits of tech breaks, check out Harvard Health Publishing for insightful research.

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15. Connecting with a Friend via a TikTok Challenge

One evening, I invited a friend to join me in a TikTok duet challenge using a popular filter.
The experience was filled with laughter, friendly competition, and genuine connection—far more interactive than our usual texting exchanges. It proved how these playful trends can spark meaningful moments, even from afar. Curious about how digital platforms shape friendships? Dive into Pew Research Center’s report on social media and connection.

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16. Preparing Dinner Using a 15-Minute Recipe

For dinner, I turned to TikTok’s famous 15-minute recipes, whipping up dishes like ramen hacks and salmon rice bowls. These meals were bursting with flavor and took a fraction of the time I’d normally spend on dinner prep. The simplicity made it easy to stick with, even on busy evenings. Looking for more quick dinner inspiration? Check out Bon Appétit’s collection of easy recipes for delicious ideas.

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17. Relaxing with a TikTok Book Recommendation

Each night, I unwound with a novel from the #BookTok trending list. This challenge pushed me to explore genres and authors I might have otherwise missed, adding fresh excitement to my nightly routine. Compared to my usual reading habits, the variety kept things interesting and sparked new conversations with fellow readers. For the latest and greatest #BookTok picks, check out Penguin Random House’s list for inspiration.

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18. Nightly Recap with a TikTok-Style Vlog

To end each day, I filmed a short TikTok-style vlog, capturing highlights, surprises, and how I felt about letting the app dictate my routine. This creative recap became a satisfying ritual, offering a sense of closure and a fun way to document my journey—much livelier than simply writing in a journal. Editing quick clips and adding music made the process even more engaging. Interested in starting your own vlogs? Explore The Verge’s guide for helpful tips and tricks.

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Conclusion

Letting TikTok steer my daily routine for five days brought unexpected benefits—from boosted energy and mindfulness to more creativity in the kitchen and closet. While some trends felt fleeting or impractical, many inspired positive changes and made everyday life feel a bit more vibrant. The experiment revealed just how influential viral content can be on our habits, for better or worse. I’ll definitely keep a few of these routines going. Curious? Try letting your own feed set the pace—you might be surprised by what sticks!

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