Not all of us are morning people, but deep down we know that starting off your day right can be the key to a successful life, both professionally and personally. The truth is, most people who consider themselves a “morning person” probably weren’t always that way, however through dedication, persistence and a good alarm clock, they developed routines overtime that helped them utilize those morning hours efficiently and effectively to set the stage for a busy and productive day. Here are 5 things you need to do every morning to help you have the most productive and enjoyable day possible.
- Get moving
Starting your day off with a trip to the gym, some cardio or a yoga session will give you a boost of energy for your day and the confidence to accomplish your goals. Don’t feel like you have to train like Rocky either, even just 20 to 30 minutes of medium intensity exercise is plenty to get you going. Morning workouts also decrease the chances that you’ll bail on exercise after a long day at the office.
- Plan out your day
The quiet early hours of the day are a great time to reflect on your goals and to schedule what you want to accomplish. You can even start this the night before by plotting out the next day. By envisioning your entire day, you can help ensure that the hours don’t slip by without getting to important tasks. And don’t forget about scheduling in breaks for mental health and healthy eating.
- Eat a healthy breakfast
You’ve always heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but often we rush out the door without taking the time for something that is good for us. Throwing back that cup of coffee and cramming a pastry on the road isn’t going to help start your day on the right foot. Eating a healthy breakfast is not only good for you physically, but also socially and mentally, giving you a chance to connect with your family or quietly reflect on the day ahead.
- Find inspiration
Scheduling in a bit of time in your morning for some inspirational reading can help calm your mind and help you envision a productive path for the day. Find some books that are uplifting, motivating, or even humorous to stimulate your brain and offer you positive thoughts for the day.
- Connect with Nature
It can be easy to fall into a routine of rotating from home to work without taking the time to enjoy the great outdoors. But research shows that exposure to the natural environment in the morning has tremendous health benefits. Take a short stroll through the woods, stop by a garden on the way to work, or even take a moment to smell the flowers before you’ll head into the office. You’ll help clear your mind, relieve stress, put work in perspective and breathe easier.
What do you find useful to do in the morning?
