Set the Tone for a Great Day

Ever hear the expression “got up on the wrong side of the bed?” It basically means that for no reason at all, you’re in a bad mood the second you open your eyes in the morning. You’re irritated by everything and nothing seems to go right. Then when your head hits the pillow at night, you think to yourself, “Man, this was the worst day ever”. Sound familiar? Luckily, there’s a way to prevent bad days like this from happening! Here are some morning rituals that will change your thoughts, improve your mood, and set the tone for your day.

1. Get Up On Time

Love to hit the snooze button? Those few extra minutes of sleep feel so good! But what’s not so good? The feeling you get when you realize you now only have ten minutes to get ready. This causes a vicious scramble of showering, getting dressed, brushing your teeth, throwing something unhealthy in your face (or not eating at all), and running out the door. Doesn’t sound so enjoyable, right? However, let’s say that instead of hitting snooze, you get up on time! Or better yet, you get up fifteen minutes earlier than you need to. Imagine what you can do with all of that extra time! You can your time showering, avoid running around like a crazy person, and throw together a nutritious breakfast. By doing this, you’ll set the tone for a positive day.

2. Change Your Alarm

What sounds more enjoyable: getting woken up by a loud & annoying alarm clock or getting woken up by a soft light that gradually gets brighter and brighter over the course of ten minutes? Definitely option #2! My wake-up light alarm clock has completely changed my mornings! I wake up feeling refreshed and ready to start my day.

3. Set Some Intentions

Positive mind, positive vibes, positive day. That’s my motto! While you’re drinking your morning coffee, set some intentions for your day. How do you want to feel today? What do you want to accomplish? How are you going to approach your to-do list?

4. Express Gratitude

While setting those intentions, take some time to write down three things that you’re grateful for in that moment. It could be anything! Your good night’s rest, your delicious cup of coffee, or your family and friends.

5. Get Moving

This site is called Get Up and Do Something, remember? Obviously, I’m going to tell you to move your body! Exercise improves mood, boosts energy levels, and reduces stress. By doing it in the morning, you’ll set the tone for a productive and positive day!

6. Make Your Own Ritual

Here’s where you can get creative. Is there an activity that always improves your mood and makes you happy? Then add it to your morning routine! Whether it’s yoga, walking your dog, looking at happy pictures, or reading a book, schedule it in!

 

And remember –

“Just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day.” – Dalai Lama

 

Written by GUADS staff member Angelina with contributions from bustle.com