Turn the start of your day into more-nings with our top tips for a successful AM…
Want to get more out of your mornings? Follow these seven easy steps and start your day right.
Wake up early
For those of us who like a lie-in, this might sound a little hard to handle. But dive into the morning routines of some of the world’s most successful people (from Tim Cook to Michelle Obama) and you’ll soon find a common denominator – an early start.
While getting up at 4:30am like Mrs Obama might be unrealistic for you, you’ll be surprised at how much you get done simply by getting up a little earlier. And remember, an easy way to introduce the early-rising habit is to do things gradually, so start with a 10-minute shift and go from there.
Light up your morning
There was a time, many many years ago, when humans used to rise with the sun. While those days might be over, natural light can still be a great way to wake you up properly. Not only can a heavy dose of sunshine help you feel more positive, but it can also help control the body’s circadian rhythm.
And with modern technology, there are even ways to introduce natural(ish) light into those dark and dreary winter mornings, too. Invest in a body-clock wake-up light and have the sunrise replicated in your own bedroom.
Stay hydrated
Health officials recommend that we drink around two litres of water a day. One of the best ways to do this is to start drinking water as soon as you wake up, and long before you reach for your coffee mug.
Not only will this help you hydrate after your sleep, but studies have shown that drinking water on an empty stomach rids your body of toxins and can even help increase your metabolism by up to 24%.
Engage your spiritual side
Why not add a little Eastern philosophy into your morning routine, with a little yoga? Yoga is an excellent way to wake up and can help relieve anxiety and stress as well as lower your risk of heart disease and other ailments over time.
If yoga sounds all a bit too much like hard work for you, try meditation instead. Just like yoga, meditation is steeped in ancient Eastern philosophy and can do wonders for your creativity and focus. Just find a quiet place and spend a few moments every morning with your thoughts.
Get active
One of the best ways to make sure you’re raring to go in the mornings is to get active. Whether this means going for a run around the local park, hitting the gym or going for a quick swim at your nearest leisure centre, getting up and active can start your day off with a bang.
There is no right or wrong exercise when it comes to a morning workout, so it’s best to find the one that suits you. For some, pounding the streets won’t be enjoyable while for others the gym can be a daunting place. Pick an exercise that works for you – whether out in public or on your own at home – and integrate it into your mornings.
Eat smart
Everyone knows the old adage about breakfast being the most important meal of the day, and it’s true! Getting the right breakfast inside you is a great way to boost your body for the long day ahead.
While a hearty, healthy, Instagram-ready breakfast might sound like a little too much hard work, there are loads of quick alternatives. If time is of the essence then porridge is a simple and easily adaptable food that releases energy through the day – perfect for a heavy workload!
Check your to-do list
OK, so this will require you making a to-do list the night before, but a good way to prepare yourself mentally for the day ahead is to check what you have on straight away.
This will allow you to compartmentalise your time and make things work more effectively for you. It can also be a great way to move things around should anything come up last minute. The course of the working day never runs smooth, so this helps you stay flexible.
Posted by The Secret Businessman