Mornings set the tone for your day. If we are running behind, it can start a chain reaction that continues to throw us off for the rest of the day. On the other hand, if you wake up prepared and with a plan, you will have smooth sailing for the rest of the day.
Wake up early
If you barely have time to squeeze in a shower before rushing out the door, you are doing it wrong. You are also increasing the chances that you will be late or forget something important. Instead, wake up early so you have enough time to get ready, mentally and physically for the day. Eat breakfast and maybe even try switching your afternoon workout to the morning. If exercise isn’t your thing, try a 15 minute meditation sitting.
Enjoy your commute
Having a long commute can be seen two ways, as an inconvenience that frustrates you or a great way to rest and relax before you start all your daily tasks. Try listening to a radio show that gets you laughing and wakes you up. If that isn’t your thing then try a book on tape or even take the time to enjoy the silence. The commute is a good time to get clear on what you would like to accomplish that day and set the stage.
Have a plan for the day
Having a plan will increase your productivity. It doesn’t have to include every detail but using it as an outline for what needs to be done is very helpful and helps you put your tasks in order. Start with your most important (or dreaded) task. That way, if you don’t get anything else done that day, you know your most important tasks are done. Be sure to give yourself a certain amount of time for tasks and breaks.
Eat well
Being on task all day take a lot of energy and you are going to need food. That means that being mindful of what you eat is crucial to survive the day. Eat a breakfast that will keep you satisfied and full while giving you a boost in the morning. If you don’t have time to sit down and eat, trying making a smoothie the night before or try breakfast bars.
Fake it
Some work days just aren’t going to start well. This means that you should find ways to cheer yourself up and get back on the right track, whether it’s making a list of everything you’re thankful for or allowing yourself to vent to a friend for a few minutes. But after that it’s time to start fresh and stop rehashing to everyone, if you do that then you won’t be able to get out of the frustration.
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