Does it feel like you’ve woken up on the wrong side of the bed every morning recently? Do you set multiple alarms to ensure that you can eventually peel yourself from under the covers, only to trudge through your morning unenthusiastic and wanting to go back to bed?
If this sounds like you, I can honestly say I relate. For most of my adult life, mornings were the bain of my existence. I hated them. By the time lunch came, I had usually pulled myself out of it, but my lack of excitement for the first quarter of my day left me enviously yearning for the go-get-em attitude of some of my coworkers and friends.
After decades of struggle, in the last year I have committed my focus towards establishing a routine that will help me win the morning. The process I am going to share has taken a lot of trial and error, but the routine that came out of it is now one of the most significant assets I have and one that’s hard to deviate from.
Here is how I’ve managed to win the morning!
Have A Plan Written Out
The anxiety of wondering where to start with the day’s tasks is the last thing I want when I am just starting my day. By creating a list the night before of the important things I have to do, or any places I have to be, I can quickly reference my priorities and not worry about forgetting something while my brain is still powering up for the day.
Give Yourself Time
It’s hard to believe waking up earlier can help you be more productive in the morning, but bear with me. By giving yourself extra time to get the ball rolling for the day, you avoid the stress of feeling like you are in a rush from the moment you get up. I am not advocating less sleep here, only that you wake up with enough time to get your day started at your own pace. Going to bed a little earlier the night before can make up this difference!
Let Your Technology Stay Asleep
By avoiding your tech gadgets as you are first waking up, you allow yourself to take priority in the morning and move at your speed. Perhaps check your phone for emergency messages if you’d otherwise have anxiety, but texting, email, and social media should wait until you are ready for it. By setting aside time for yourself and avoiding distractions, you can focus on doing what you need to do for yourself first.
See The Light
When you wake up, throw on a sweater or jacket and take a few steps outside. The sunlight (or maybe even sunrise) will awaken your brain and signal the chemicals that get your day time processes moving. The fresh air feels great, and the temperature outside will let you know how to dress for the day. Start by taking ten deep breaths.
Fuel Your Day
I have found that drinking a big glass of water first thing in the morning has a hugely beneficial effect on my day. It allows me to start off on the right foot regarding my hydration and wakes up my insides to let them know that the time for rest has been put on hold. Make sure to eat a light, nutritious breakfast that will be your first fuel source for the day.
If you struggle with winning the morning and often find yourself slogging through the first hours of your day, give the above suggestions a shot. As with any routine in life, you will have to test and try different things to find what resonates with you the most and has you feeling your best. Stay committed in your pursuit of finding what works for you in the morning, and you will quickly realize that the morning is the best time of the day!
