- Guest Contributor
- May 21, 2021
Mornings can be a drag. Am I right? But like preparation is key for success in a new job, the way you spend your morning hours sets the tone for the rest of the day. In fact, the following five morning habits can transform your mindset and prepare you to become more successful and positive.
1. Wake Up Early
Start your day in a rush, and you’re more likely to feel frazzled and less productive, focused, patient, and decisive during the day. That’s why it’s important to wake up early and spend a few minutes relaxing.
Because sleep affects your concentration, memory, mood, and communication abilities, go to bed earlier, too. And no worries if you’re not a traditional morning person. Simply follow your circadian rhythm and wake up earlier whether your “morning” starts at 5 am or 1 pm. If you’re getting a good night’s sleep, this shouldn’t be a problem.
2. Hydrate
Instead of reaching for the coffee pot, reach for your water bottle first. Water breaks your overnight fast, flushes toxins, and can boost your metabolism and digestion. In other words, you’ll feel better physically and be more energized when you start your morning with mindful hydration.
Aim to drink a liter of water within the first hour of your morning. To boost the nutritional benefits of your morning hydration, add lemon, mint, fruit, ginger, or apple cider vinegar to your glass.
3. Move
Physical activity in the morning recharges your body and brain. When your body’s strong, you have more stamina, energy, focus, and alertness during your busy day. Movement also activates feel-good hormones that boost your positivity.
Because your morning habits are most effective when they’re enjoyable, choose a fun activity. Try yoga, walking, biking, jogging, dancing, or stretching. Or make up your own moves based on your interests and abilities.
4. Practice Gratitude
Whether you naturally wake up happy or grumpy, you can start your day on a positive note. Gratitude is a practice that can actually rewire your subconscious thoughts from a negative to a positive perspective. This habit also opens you to abundance and sets your intention for the day. As you look for the good every morning, you’re more likely to remain positive all day.
Record what you’re thankful for in a journal, vlog, or with lipstick or shaving cream on the bathroom mirror. You can also share your gratitude list and your positivity with a friend as you spread the joy.
5. Make Fewer Decisions
In a typical morning, you make dozens of decisions, such as what to wear, what to eat and what task to tackle first. Unfortunately, your willpower and decision-making capacity is finite and limited. Eliminate as many decisions as possible in the morning. Conserve this valuable resource so that it’s available for important work decisions that affect your success.
Here are some ways to simplify your morning routine. Before you leave the office, write a list of essential tasks and prioritize each time. At home, set out your clothes, plan your breakfast menu and pack your lunch before you go to bed.
If you’re ready to become a more successful, positive person, consider adding these five morning habits to your routine. You will notice the results in every area of your life.
About the Author: Jennifer Turner writes web content for a variety of clients. As a gig worker, she understands the benefits and challenges of the industry, which is why she prioritizes daily self-care. Find her at WriterAccess.
