By Deborah K. Heisz
Co-founder, COO and Editorial Director, Live Happy
As we move through the day, we know life is going to throw all kinds of curveballs at us: one of the kids is expelling green slime from her nose; a tropical storm decides to blow through, even though I live in a landlocked state; and when I get to the office, presentation notes have walked away by themselves.
One thing we can do to take control of our own happiness, however, is choose to start the morning on a positive note. This sets us up—not to avoid difficulties—but to handle them with a better attitude.
How can you build positivity into your morning? Start with these 5 excellent tips, including the all-important message of getting a good night’s sleep. In addition, you might try adding some mindfulness to your morning, whether that comes in the form of mindfulness meditation, or simply sitting quietly with yourself, unplugged, and being in the present. This will reset your brain for a better day.
Another surefire way to start out your day feeling great? Exercise. Get those endorphins flowing first thing in the morning, and not only will you feel physically great, but your well-being will soar, setting you up to accomplish the rest of your goals.
If you’re not quite ready to hit the gym or the pavement first thing in the morning, there are other science-tested ways to exercise your positivity muscles. You can read something positive, whether it’s a book of beautiful poetry, a volume of positive affirmations—or of course, Live Happy magazine.
Finally, try writing down three positive goals for the day. Make sure these are small and achievable things that you will be able to accomplish without pushing yourself too much. Would you like to reach out to an old friend by email? Have you been meaning to thank a coworker for his or her help? Does your spouse deserve an extra hug this week? Think of this as a “Gratitude Goals” journal. Then go back and check it at the end of the day to see if you were able to accomplish what you set out to do.
Pick and choose which one of these practices works for you. Whichever you choose, if you start out your morning with a jolt of positivity, your whole day will settle into place. Your will have a greater sense of well-being, and that positivity will spread to those around you.
