Is Your Morning Routine Setting You Up For Stress or Success?
Did you know that your morning routine sets the tone for your entire day?
I recently discovered the importance of an intentional morning routine and the positive impact it has on my life. The totally cool thing is that these steps can be completed in as little as 5 minutes! Yup, 5 minutes is all it takes to take charge of my day.
There is no better feeling for me then being connected with myself, grounded and in control of my emotions. Because of this routine, I am better able to remain in a more positive state of mind, and to effectively address challenges that might show up during the day.
Truth be told, I am not a “morning person”, so this new routine was a bit of a challenge in the beginning until I adapted to its new rhythm. I am not going to tell you that it is easy or difficult, but rather; what I am suggesting, is that you just simply begin this routine and take notice of the positive changes you are experiencing.
Listed here are some of the practices that I do to set myself up for success. I encourage you to borrow any or all these steps to get yourself started.
Start the night before by preparing breakfast, snacks, and lunches for the following day. If I know what I’m wearing the next day, I will even set that clothing out so it’s ready for me.
Wake up immediately when your alarm goes off. Studies have shown that hitting ‘snooze’ and dozing for those few extra minutes actually drags your energy down because it messes with your sleep cycle.
Write (or you can verbalize) at least 5 things that you are grateful for in your life.
Create your ‘perfect day’ visualization and set an intention too. For example, I visualize that this day goes smoothly, happily, and with ease. My intention may be that I connect with one person genuinely and authentically. If I am attending a work setting/meeting, I may also visualize that people acknowledge me with a smile and that I reciprocate. I might see myself choosing healthy food options and going to the gym after work. Other possibilities for you may include being told about a potential job opportunity that perfectly suits who you are, or that your boss acknowledges your hard work, and so forth. Remember, this is your perfect day to create in any manner that you wish. It may not feel natural in the beginning, and that’s okay. I promise you that this will become much easier as you persevere.
