We ALL have those times when our day has barely started – and we would rather just crawl right back into bed.
Unlocking the secret to a great day doesn’t require any magic concoction (Unless coffee counts?); it’s about embracing the power of small habits.
Our daily experiences are crafted by the routines we follow and the choices we make.
While of course some things are beyond our control – ultimately, it’s within our own power to shape our days.
The next time you just want to give up on your day – try a few of these simple, yet effective habits you can incorporate into your daily routine to ensure each day is a fulfilling one:
11 Ways to Help You Have a Better Day
1. Start with a positive mindset.
Begin your day with positive affirmations or thoughts.
Remind yourself of things you’re grateful for and set intentions for the day ahead.
2. Get moving.
After stopping your alarm, resist the urge to scroll through your phone.
Engage in some form of physical activity in the morning, whether it’s a quick workout, a walk, or some stretching. It doesn’t have to be anything intense. Exercise releases endorphins, which can boost your mood and energy levels.
3. Eat a nutritious breakfast.
Fuel your body with a healthy breakfast to give you the energy you need to tackle the day.
Opt for whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. I know some days we just don’t have time for breakfast. Consider a nutritious and tasty smoothie that you can have on the go.
4. Start your day with a little dance.
Smile and dance a little.
There is just something about dancing that lifts your mood. When you have your morning shower, listen to some good music and sing along.
Then, think about your playlist as you set off on your day. The music I play when driving to work is my absolute favorite, and I find it always uplifts me. Along that drive, I tune into such a positive mood and get to work highly confident that I will give my all to everything I have to do.
5. Plan your day.
Take a few minutes to plan out your day, setting priorities and goals.
Try to have a clear idea of how your day will go. Having a plan can help reduce stress and increase productivity. However, also keep in mind that life happens, and sometimes your plan might change.
6. Watch the sunrise or the sunset.
This seemingly small gesture might change your mood more than you realize.
To me, sunrises are a great way to see the beauty of the day unfolding before your eyes, and sunsets are an excellent way to say goodbye to the day. Both are beautiful and instill a level of peacefulness in us when we watch and appreciate them.
7. Stay hydrated.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and maintain optimal body function.
Dehydration can lead to fatigue and decreased cognitive function. I’ve learnt that having a water bottle on my desk helps me drink more overall, rather than if I have to actually get up to go to the kitchen for water.
8. Take breaks.
Incorporate short breaks into your day to rest and recharge.
Whether it’s a quick walk outside, a few minutes of deep breathing, or simply stretching at your desk, taking breaks can help improve focus and productivity. One of the reasons why I love using the Pomodoro technique is the fact that I get to get up and take a break after every 25 minutes of work.
9. Practice gratitude.
We say this a lot – but for good reason!
Give it a try – take a moment to appreciate the good things in your life, no matter how small. Get in the habit of saying thank you and actually meaning it.
Practicing gratitude can shift your focus from what’s going wrong to what’s going right, which can turn your whole perspective around!
10. Do something you enjoy.
Sounds obvious, right? But so many of us cast aside the things that bring us joy for things we feel like we have to do.
Set aside time to engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, whether it’s reading a book, listening to music, or pursuing a hobby. Your whole day should not be dedicated to serving everyone else – even 15 minutes can help.
11. End the day on a positive note.
Reflect on the good things that happened during the day before you go to bed.
Focus on your achievements, no matter how small, and let go of any negative experiences or thoughts. Journaling is another good way to end the day.
Make Today Your Better Day
Unfortunate things will come up, but that doesn’t have to take over your entire day. Take those experiences as they are, and don’t let them shape how your day turns out.
If your Wi-Fi is patchy, then you are having terrible Wi-Fi, and you are not having a bad day. So many things are above our control, but there are others we can influence.
We need to focus on the ones within our efforts to control and ensure we get the most from them.
Remember, having a better day is often a result of small, intentional actions and choices. Start with these tips and adjust them to fit your own preferences and lifestyle. Be kind to yourself and take one day at a time.
Photo by Ron Lach
