You may think the best way to start your day each morning is to tackle your inbox, post on social media sites or shuffle paperwork on your desk. But it’s not!
If you truly want to make the most of your work day, follow these 5 tips:
(1) Have me time – This could be a morning work out, some yoga/stretching, journaling, reading, meditation or a walk with your dog. Find something to do each morning for at least 20-30 minutes that fills you up, not beats you down (like checking and responding to emails), and that also sets the tone for your day. Experts recommend waking no later than 6 am to maximize this morning time.
(2) Play! – This could be with your pet, your kids or even spending time with your spouse. Eat breakfast, talk about what you will do today, tell jokes to each other, cuddle and hug…whatever fills you up. If you’re pressed for time, just 5-10 minutes will do. Set your alarm 5 minutes earlier and you’ll easily fit this into your day.
(3) Gratitude – Find 3 things you’re grateful for and take a moment to reflect on them. Studies show that when we are feeling grateful, it’s impossible for us to feel depressed or down. These don’t have to be big things – aren’t you grateful that you have a warm bed to sleep in each night, that you have food to eat each day or that you have an amazing child or spouse? You might even be grateful for your morning cup of coffee. Truly feel grateful each day for what you have.
(4) Eat a healthy breakfast – Healthy proteins, whole grains and fresh fruit are an excellent way to start each day. So is a healthy meal replacement shake made from organic whey protein, especially if you’re pressed for time in the morning. Whatever you choose to start your day off with, eat within one hour of rising and make a healthy choice. This is the most important meal of the day!
(5) Tackle 2-3 things – Take the 2-3 things on your “to-do” list for the day and tackle them before 10 am. Don’t put them off until later in the day. Studies show we are most productive between about an hour after arising in the morning and two hours past that point. So if you get up at 530 am, between 630-830 am or 7-9 am, aim to get something major accomplished. You’ll feel better not leaving it until the end of the day. Don’t check emails or social media until these 2-3 things are done!
We hope these suggestions help. Now go make it an amazing day!