> Testing the reality of your situation by checking clocks, breathing through your nose, counting your fingers, etc. will all quickly put you into a more lucid and aware state.

I haven't thought of that. What became my anchor for the past few years have been my schedule or being aware of it.

But there were rare cases when in my dream state, the reality is happening in the dream and that totally puts me off greatly. A good example is when I'm dreaming I woke up, went to work, and got home.

When I woke up, I didn't know until I arrived at the office and learned no day has passed yet.