Getting up in the morning is a process that takes me (at least!) half an hour. Some mornings are more difficult than others in the sense I really don’t want to get out of bed and face the world. Other mornings are easier, I believe because I’ve rested enough and my energy level is at its fullest. Sometimes I even allow myself to stay a little longer in bed. As the alarm continues on and on, I start thinking on how much time I have left to get ready, and how I need to shuffle my schedule around to be on time at work.
First, start your day with positive thoughts and select one activity you will be doing - for example, finish that business plan you were working on, go to the gym, prepare that special meal you haven’t done in a while. Don’t start your day thinking on all the things you hate doing, life is also about taking care of those less fun responsabilities, and yes still we have to do it. Focus on the good, on what you enjoying doing.
Organize your morning priorities: Take care of your body – shower, creams, medicines (I do it on that order!). Get yourself ready for the day – it doesn’t mean putting on a ton of make up, spending 3 hours fixing your hair or selecting the most beautiful clothes of your wardrobe. Be presentable, smile. You don’t want to be remembered as the negative person who neglects herself. It will also give an extra boost to your confidence.
Dedicate time to your family before starting your duties. I always drink coffee with my partner, have a casual conversation, and then hit to the office. Some mornings I have more time to chat with him, others like the ones I struggle to get out of bed take only 10 minutes. But I never ever skip this morning ritual as it gives me strength for the day.
I know it can be easier to say these recommendations than actually implementing. Decide what will make you happy in the mornings, start doing it. There will be days you might forget or do not have time to do it, try again the next day. With patience and persistence you eventually will get there.
Print your morning routine and put it in a visible place so you don’t forget about it. Take notes of your progress and the positive changes you notice in your life. Put some effort, and step by step you will be creating a routine towards a more mindful life.
