Start your day positively
Start the day on a positive note
The choices we make in the first 10 minutes of the morning set the tone for the rest of the day. If we turn on a screen and make the news, social media, or email the priority first thing after waking up, we might negatively impact the start of the day. When we choose to do something positive first thing in the morning, over time the cumulative effect can significantly increase our happiness.
What does an ideal morning routine look like?
Everyone is different. So it’s important to find what works best for you. Here is a good sample routine:
Drink a large glass of water
Meditate or stretch for a few minutes
Wait at least 10 minutes after waking up before looking at screens (including your smart phone)
Tell yourself why it’s going to be a great day
Have a healthy breakfast
Breaking it down:
A good night’s sleep is a precursor to a good day. However, if we experience poor sleep, it’s difficult to be optimistic or feel grateful. When we feel tired and have low levels of energy, we are also less confident and productive and are less likely to find enough time for our hobbies. At the same time, we become more prone to mindless eating and drinking and more likely to skip our exercise. Meditation, breathing exercises or stretching all have a relaxing effect on the body and improve overall brain health. However, looking at mobile devices or computers first thing in the morning can negatively affect our mood and drive unhappiness. Try not to look at screens in the first 10 minutes of your day. Instead spend 10 seconds telling yourself why it’s going to be a great day. This is a simple and powerful exercise that will help you start the day on the right foot. Lastly, make sure you eat a healthy breakfast. Food is not only fuel for your body, it’s fuel for your brain. A healthy breakfast will lower your stress levels, improve your mood, increase your energy and focus.
Do you experience difficulties following a good morning routine?
If you struggle with your routine or experience difficulties adopting new habits, we encourage you to study these 11 habits. It might make sense to also look at other aspects of your lifestyle.