Becoming happier is all about choices. As Hack Spirit founder and mindfulness enthusiast Lachlan Brown, I firmly believe that the way you start your day plays a crucial role in determining how happy you’ll be.
It’s not just about waking up on the right side of the bed. It’s about consciously choosing to do things that set a positive tone for the rest of your day.
But what are these things? That’s what I’m here to tell you today. I’ve put together a list of 9 actions you can take every morning to pave the way for a happier you next year.
It’s not magic, but it’s close. All it takes is a little dedication and a willingness to embrace the morning.
Let’s get started.
1) Start with gratitude
Believe it or not, one of the most powerful ways to start your day is with a dose of gratitude.
As a mindfulness enthusiast, I can tell you that gratitude has been scientifically proven to increase happiness levels. It’s about focusing on what’s good in your life rather than dwelling on the negatives.
Each morning, take a moment to list down three things you’re grateful for. They don’t have to be big things. It might be as simple as the warmth of the morning sun on your face, or the smell of fresh coffee brewing.
This simple act shifts your mindset to a positive space and prepares you for the day ahead.
It’s not just a pleasant way to start your day; it’s a proven path to happiness. But remember, it must be sincere. No faking gratitude just for the sake of it.
2) Movement is key
I can’t emphasize enough the importance of starting your day with some sort of physical activity. It doesn’t have to be a full-blown workout – just something to get your blood flowing and awaken your senses.
For example, I’ve made it a part of my morning routine to do a quick 15-minute yoga session. The stretching and deep breathing help me feel more energized and alert, ready to tackle the day’s tasks.
I’ve found that on days when I skip this routine, my energy levels are noticeably lower, and I struggle to maintain focus.
Try out different forms of low-intensity exercises like yoga, tai chi or even a short walk around your neighborhood. Find what works best for you and stick with it. Trust me, your body and mind will thank you for it.
3) Hydrate first thing
Our bodies are made up of about 60% water. After a long night’s sleep, your body is naturally dehydrated. No wonder you wake up feeling groggy and lethargic!
Rehydrating first thing in the morning helps kick-start your metabolism and flushes out toxins, leaving you feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day.
Before reaching for that morning cup of coffee, try drinking a glass of water instead. If plain water is too boring for you, add a slice of lemon for a vitamin C boost and a refreshing twist.
4) Embrace mindfulness
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from studying Buddhism, it’s the power of mindfulness.
Starting your day with a moment of mindfulness helps clear your mind and set a calm, focused tone for the rest of the day. It can be as simple as taking a few moments to focus on your breath, or indulging in a full-blown meditation session.
In my book, Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego, I delve deeper into the transformative power of mindfulness and how it can help you live a happier, more fulfilling life.
But you don’t need to be a Buddhist monk to embrace mindfulness. Start small by dedicating five minutes each morning to sit quietly and focus on your breath. You’ll be surprised at the impact this simple act can have on your overall happiness.
5) Eat a healthy breakfast
I have to admit, I wasn’t always the healthiest eater. My mornings used to start with a hefty dose of caffeine and sugary pastries. Not exactly the best fuel for a productive day.
I realized I was doing more harm than good to my body, and decided to make a change. Now, my breakfast typically consists of fruits, whole grains, and protein – foods that keep me feeling full and energized throughout the day.
Importantly, it’s not just about eating healthy. It’s about taking the time to enjoy your food and nourish your body. Remember, breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Make it count!
6) Embrace the silence
In a world that’s constantly buzzing with noise, it might seem strange to suggest embracing silence. But hear me out.
The early morning is often the quietest part of the day. Before the hustle and bustle starts, there’s a serene calm that can be incredibly soothing.
Instead of immediately reaching for your phone or turning on the TV, try sitting in this silence for a few minutes. It’s a wonderful opportunity to gather your thoughts and mentally prepare for the day.
It might feel uncomfortable at first, but with time, you’ll start to appreciate these precious moments of tranquility. Silence, it turns out, can be golden.
7) Set your intentions for the day
Having a clear vision of what you want to achieve each day can set you on a path to success. This doesn’t necessarily mean creating a detailed to-do list (although that can be helpful too).
What I’m talking about is setting your intentions. It’s about deciding how you want to feel, how you want to interact with others, and what kind of energy you want to bring into your day.
Take a few moments each morning to visualize your day and set these intentions. It’s a powerful way to align your actions with your values and goals, and it can make a significant difference in how your day unfolds.
8) Limit technology
We live in a hyper-connected world, and while technology has its benefits, it can also be a source of stress and distraction.
I’ve found that starting my day scrolling through emails or social media often leaves me feeling overwhelmed before the day has even started.
That’s why I’ve made a conscious effort to limit my screen time in the mornings. Instead of reaching for my phone first thing, I focus on activities that ground me – like meditation, reading, or simply enjoying my breakfast.
By doing this, I’m able to start my day with a clear mind and a focused energy, rather than getting caught up in the whirlwind of digital noise.
9) Practice self-compassion
Above all else, the most important thing to remember is to be kind to yourself. We’re often our own harshest critics, and this can take a toll on our happiness.
Start each day by speaking kindly to yourself, acknowledging your achievements and strengths, and forgiving your mistakes. This practice of self-compassion can significantly boost your overall happiness levels.
Remember, you’re a human being who’s doing the best they can. Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you’d extend to a loved one. It’s a game-changer.
Ultimately, it’s a personal journey
Finding happiness is a deeply personal endeavor, one that varies from person to person. The 9 things I’ve shared here are by no means a definitive guide, but rather, suggestions based on my own experiences and studies.
At the heart of it all is the idea of mindfulness – being present and finding joy in the simple moments. It’s a concept deeply rooted in Buddhism and one I delve deeper into in my book Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego.
But remember, this journey towards happiness is not about achieving perfection. It’s about making small, consistent changes to your daily routine that align with your personal values and goals.
So, as you embark on this journey towards a happier you next year, remember to be patient with yourself. Happiness is not a destination but a journey, one that starts each morning when you open your eyes. It’s a path you pave for yourself, one day at a time.
