Your day starts the moment you get out of bed in the morning. What you choose to do first will set the tone for the day ahead, especially in terms of productivity and positivity.
To start your day right, plan a routine that involves physical activity, letting your creative juices flow, or a little meditation to focus your mind.
No idea? Give the suggestions below a go.
Put away technology
The first thing many people do when they wake up is pick up their phone or gadget and spend a least 15 minutes (if not more) browsing the day’s news and social media. Some even reply to work emails before reaching the office.
For a change, stop phone and gadget use at the start of the day. Do something less distracting, such as light exercises or meditation.
It will be difficult to give up devices but it can be done through willpower and discipline. To make the process easier, you can mute or disable all notifications until a specific time in the morning.
Have a cold shower
Cold showers can be hard to take, especially in the morning but they have some benefits.
Studies have shown that a cold shower has a similar effect to that of cardio exercise. It jumpstarts the system and refreshes the body. Cold showers can also help reduce muscle soreness, stimulate weight loss and increase the body’s tolerance of stress and disease.
Make full use of your commute
Every minute spent travelling to work is precious so use the time wisely. Whether you’re driving or using public transport, there is always a way to make full use of time. For instance, listen to audiobooks, TED talks or just take the time to appreciate the morning’s serenity.
Do some self-reflection or brainstorm ideas while you wait for the train or bus. Carry a small pocket notebook to jot down your ideas or type them into your phone. Use this time in the morning to prep your mind and focus for the day ahead.
Eat a healthy and delicious breakfast
If you have been skipping breakfast, it’s time to change. If you have not been skipping breakfast, good on you!
Most people regard breakfast as a simple meal in the morning and don’t think too much of it. The reality is that this simple meal helps you kick-start your metabolism and replenishes healthy sugar levels for a productive day.
Don’t go to work on an empty stomach, as you can get easily irritated, tired or impatient when you do. Eat high-fibre carbohydrates like fruit and whole-grains such as oatmeal or cereal.
Add some variation with Greek yoghurt with honeycomb, for example, or have a protein smoothie on the go.
Plan your day
Plan for the next day before you go to bed, and this can include what you plan to wear to work, the food you’re packing for lunch or even what you are thinking about sharing during meetings.
Visualise the flow and you will feel at ease, as you have gone through the day in your mind.
Allow some extra time when you prepare or travel. An extra half an hour to an hour is ideal to give you a head start.
This article first appeared in jobstore.com.
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