Unless I'm really tired, I'm usually vaguely semi-awake between 7 and 7:30 (where my Alarm rings), at which point instead of going back to sleep I now decide to get up and do stuff.
The going to bed before midnight helps make sure I don't get too tired.
This is the public group instrumental rationality diary for December 1-15.
Thanks to cata for starting the Group Rationality Diary posts, and to commenters for participating.
Immediate past diary: November 16-30