Start the new year with a revitalised morning routine
AS the end of the year approaches, it’s a good opportunity to reflect and consider how it’s affected you. What were your high and low points? Is there anything you want to change in the coming year to help you improve and meet your goals?
Rather than making flimsy New Year resolutions that fall by the wayside despite your best intentions, it’s more effective to develop practical habits that are built into your day with the aim of improving yourself.
A good place to start is with your morning routine.
Taking the time you need to adjust in the morning is incredibly important but something many of us don’t prioritise.
By taking control of your mornings and beginning your day on the offensive, you can ground yourself to your goals and align your actions to them. With consistent practice, your whole day will start to change for the better.
In his book, The Miracle Morning, Hal Elrod outlines six activities for getting your day off to the best start. Dedicating just one minute to each of the following steps can make a positive difference.
SILENCE – Spend the first moments of your day in purposeful silence.
Breathe deeply and allow yourself to be present in the moment. Give thanks for what you have in your life right now and ask for guidance on the journey before you.
AFFIRMATIONS – Write down a list of positive affirmations that highlight your capabilities, your priorities and your potential. Read them aloud. This will remind you of your purpose and goals and boost your confidence and motivation. VISUALISATION – Close your eyes and picture yourself achieving your goals for that day. Imagine everything going to plan, what that will look like and how you will feel about your accomplishments.
WRITING – Keep a journal and each morning write down something you’re grateful for, something you’re proud of and what you are committed to achieving that day.
READING – Invest in a self-help book and read a couple of pages. Take on board what it says and put what you learn into practice.
EXERCISE – Finish your morning routine with a burst of high intensity exercise such as squats, push ups or sit ups. Increasing your heart rate will help you feel more alert, focussed and ready to tackle the day ahead.