The 'I'm Awake, But At What Cost?' meme is a popular internet catchphrase used to describe the feeling of extreme fatigue or regret upon waking up, especially after a short night's sleep. While the phrase has circulated in various text-based formats on platforms like Tumblr and Twitter for years, it became a viral image macro template featuring various exhausted-looking animals and people. It perfectly captures the modern struggle of balancing responsibilities with a desire for more rest, resonating with students, office workers, and night owls alike. Whether it is a disgruntled cat or a disheveled person staring into the distance, this meme remains a staple for anyone who feels the heavy price of being conscious before noon.