Every time we open our eyes from a blissful night’s sleep, we have the chance to make a change and live our best life. Your morning alarm goes off and it’s your choice to set the tone for the next 24 hours. We’re big believers that how you start your morning will impact your attitude and outlook for the day ahead. But it’s not always as simple as it sounds—we can relate. Maybe you’re in a funk or woke up on the wrong side of the bed. No matter the reason, there are actions you can take to pull yourself into a happier state and shift your mood. Read on to find out how to set a positive vibe first thing in the a.m.
• Deep breaths: our in-house life coach, Ryan Haddon, recommends, “Set your timer for five minutes, sit wherever you are, close your eyes, and just focus on the breath coming in and going out. You can repeat a phrase or mantra on each in/out breath, or focus on the space between breaths. If the mind wanders, simply notice it and, without judgment, gently bring the mind back to the breath.”
• She’s also a fan of a meditative walk. “Bring yourself back to the Now through your senses. Breathe: take in the scents around you, all the subtle layers of them, such as flowers, fresh-cut grass, and morning rain. Feel: the air around you, the motion of your body, the earth under your feet as you walk, the sun on your face. Hear: the sounds of birds, the wind, dogs barking, children playing, your breathing, and even your own heartbeat.”
• Follow Kourt’s lead and start your morning with a prayer. “The first thing I do each morning is get down on my knees and pray. I like to do this in my bathroom so I can look out my window, take in the blue skies, and connect with nature. It’s really important to me to express gratitude for God’s blessings and ask for health and happiness for my family. I keep the book Jesus Calling open on my bathroom counter at all times.”
• Avoid looking at your phone for the first five to ten minutes (or longer) of waking up. Use this time to disconnect from technology and connect with your thoughts. This includes waiting to respond to work-related emails/texts/chats until you’ve completed your “you time.”
• Keep a gratitude list in your notes on your phone or a journal and read over it after you’ve had your no-phone time in the morning. You can even text a close friend and let them know you’re grateful for their friendship. This small gesture will boost your mental outlook in a big way.
• Look in the mirror and hype yourself up like you would a friend. Sounds silly, but just try it—we promise it works.
• Schedule a morning workout (even if you’re feeling lazy) and encourage yourself to show up and sweat it out. Exercising in the a.m. increases energy and improves productivity for the day.
• Say positive affirmations out loud: “I can do this.” “I am successful.” “I will complete this project.” These are all examples of how to increase confidence and ultimately manifest a positive vibe for the day.
