Are you a morning person? Be honest here… sometimes it can be hard to crawl out of bed, and put a smile on our faces. Each and every one of us has that type of morning, some more often than others.
And that’s perfectly okay.
It’s so important to start your day off on the right foot, no matter what you’re up against. But rather than accept the fact that mornings are tough, why not try to tweak your morning routine?
By adding a few of these small tasks into your morning, your bound to improve not only your morning, but your entire day. I challenge you, today, to try at least one of these tasks on this list.
I know it’s the most cliche point, but it rings true. Start going to bed earlier each night, and waking up slightly early each morning- and your body will get used to it. Set a goal for self, and wake up earlier until you’ve hit a sweet spot that works for you and your schedule. Maybe that looks like getting up just an hour earlier each day before work to have “me time” whatever that looks like for you, do it. I typically get up around 6-7am and begin my day with coffee, and quiet time. Allowing extra time in the morning allows you to wake up slowly, without all that rushing around.
Practicing gratitude is one of those things we tend to fall short of, but it’s so important to do it, and do it often. Doing so brings a much needed dose of positivity into our lives, and who doesn’t want that? You can do this anywhere really, whether it’s drinking your coffee first thing, or making a mental note while you commute to work. If I’m alone in my car, I’m guilty of saying aloud all the aspects of my life I am grateful for, and that helps to fill myself with positivity. Each morning, challenge yourself to grab a piece of paper, and write down five things you’re truly grateful for. Practicing gratitude first thing in the morning, is bound to bring positivity into your entire day.
First thing in the morning, begin to picture your day. Even if it’s going to be a hectic day, take a moment to set your intentions and say them aloud to yourself while getting yourself ready for the day. Choose positive affirmations or create a unique mantra. It can be as simple as “I will get through this day” whatever works best for you, and your situation. Making a list of to do’s keeps you on track, and ensures you achieve your goals. Setting intentions is the best way to insure you fulfill your obligations, and will simplify your day as a result.
While you have your morning tea or coffee, spend time reflecting. Find a cozy spot in your home, or even outside to practice reflection. Challenge yourself to see the good- if it’s something negative. You can also journal why you reflect, which will ultimately help in proccessing thoughts/feelings. Allowing yourself time to reflect of proccess will help to keep your head clearer during the day. Taking quite time to yourself to just think, and let your thoughts flow freely is also a form of self care.
I know, you’re already thinking there is SO MUCH to do in the morning, but remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup! If you’re already getting up early, you will by default, have more time for “you” which SHOULD lead to some sort of self care activity. Self care looks different for everyone. Maybe for a busy mother, self care could have been having that extra moment to have a cup of coffee before the kids woke up. Or maybe it’s simply allowing yourself to sleep in, and wake up slowly. Even if you only have ten minutes to practice self care in the morning, choose to use it wisely.
What one of these quick tasks will you add into your morning routine? Share with me in the comments below!
