Imagine waking up every morning, feeling a genuine sense of joy and contentment. Sounds like a dream, doesn’t it? But it’s totally achievable.
It’s all about making a few simple changes to how you start your day and sticking to it for the next 60 days.
I’ve got eight things that you can start doing every morning. And I’m not just talking about empty rituals here. These are backed by science and have been tried and tested by yours truly.
If happiness is what you’re after, read on. Because a happier you in just 60 days? That is absolutely doable.
1) Kick-start your day with positivity
Waking up on the wrong side of the bed isn’t a myth. How we start our morning often sets the tone for the rest of our day.
So, why not begin with something positive?
This doesn’t have to be anything big or time-consuming. It could be as simple as reading an inspirational quote, writing down something you’re grateful for, or even just taking a few moments to savor that first sip of coffee.
The key here is to consciously inject positivity into your morning routine. It’s about breaking away from the automatic negativity that can often cloud our mornings.
Doing this consistently for 60 days will not only set a positive tone for your day but also train your brain to naturally lean towards a more optimistic outlook.
Make no mistake – this small habit can make a big difference to your overall happiness quotient. And the best part? It’s entirely in your hands. No need for external validation or approval.
2) Prioritize exercise
I can’t stress this enough – starting your day with some form of exercise can make a world of difference.
Initially, I was skeptical. I mean, who wants to jump out of bed and start doing squats or go for a jog? But, I decided to give it a try, and trust me, it was a game-changer.
Every morning, I would roll out of bed and do a 20-minute yoga session. At first, it was tough. My body wasn’t used to this early morning activity and every part of me wanted to crawl back into bed.
But after a few days, I started noticing the difference. My energy levels were up, my mood had improved, and I found myself feeling more ready to tackle the day ahead.
But here’s the fascinating part – this physical change triggered a mental one too. The discipline and commitment it took to stick to this routine boosted my self-esteem and confidence.
The whole experience was empowering. And the best part? It made me genuinely happier.
3) Hydrate immediately
We often underestimate the power of water. After a long night’s sleep, your body wakes up dehydrated. Starting your day with a glass or two of water can rehydrate your body, speed up your metabolism, and give you a boost of energy.
Moreover, it’s been found that even mild dehydration can affect mood and cognitive functioning. So, by drinking water first thing in the morning, you’re not only taking care of your physical health but also setting the stage for better mental performance throughout the day.
This simple act of hydrating can have a profound impact on your overall well-being and happiness. It’s a small change with big benefits, and all it takes is a glass of water each morning.
4) Practice mindfulness
Mindfulness is a cornerstone of Buddhism, and it’s also a potent tool for cultivating happiness.
The idea is to be fully present and engaged in the current moment, rather than letting your mind wander to the past or future. It’s about experiencing life as it unfolds, without judgment or distraction.
In my book, Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego, I delve deeper into the power of mindfulness and how it can transform your life.
One of the most practical ways to incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine is by practicing it first thing in the morning. This could be through meditation, mindful eating, or even just taking a few moments to really savor your morning coffee.
Practicing mindfulness each morning allows you to start your day with a sense of calm and focus. It sets the tone for a more intentional, less reactive day ahead.
5) Create a morning routine
There were times when my mornings were chaotic and rushed. I would hit the snooze button multiple times, scramble out of bed at the last minute, and barely have time for a quick shower before running out the door.
It was stressful, to say the least, and it definitely didn’t contribute to my happiness.
So, I decided to make a change. I created a morning routine that I could stick to – something that would give structure to my mornings and set me up for a successful day.
Now, my mornings start with some light stretching, followed by a glass of water and some mindfulness practice. Then, I spend a few minutes jotting down my priorities for the day. This routine not only helps me feel more organized and prepared but also gives me a sense of accomplishment right at the start of the day.
Creating and sticking to a morning routine might seem trivial, but it can have a profound impact on your overall mood and well-being. It’s like setting the stage for a performance – when everything is in its place, you’re more likely to perform better. And when you perform better, you feel happier.
6) Embrace the silence
In our busy, always-connected lives, silence is often viewed as something uncomfortable or even unsettling. But it doesn’t have to be that way. In fact, embracing silence in the mornings can be a powerful way to boost your happiness.
You see, silence allows us to connect with our thoughts and emotions in a deeper, more meaningful way. It provides space for introspection and self-awareness, two key components of personal growth and happiness.
Instead of immediately reaching for your phone or turning on the TV first thing in the morning, consider spending some time in silence. This could be during your mindfulness practice, while you’re sipping your coffee, or even while you’re just sitting and observing the world around you.
Learning to appreciate and enjoy silence might take some time, but the benefits are well worth it. It’s about finding peace within yourself, regardless of what’s happening around you. And that’s a surefire way to cultivate lasting happiness.
7) Include a healthy breakfast
Breakfast is often called the most important meal of the day and for good reason. Eating a nutritious breakfast not only fuels your body for the day ahead, but it can also have a significant impact on your mood and overall well-being.
Starting your day with a balanced meal that includes protein, fiber, and healthy fats can stabilize your blood sugar levels, preventing those mid-morning energy crashes and mood swings.
Moreover, taking the time to sit down and enjoy your breakfast can be a form of self-care. It’s an opportunity to nourish your body and mind, setting a positive tone for the rest of your day.
Make breakfast a non-negotiable part of your morning routine. Your body – and your happiness levels – will thank you for it.
8) Practice gratitude
Gratitude is incredibly powerful. It shifts your focus from what’s missing in your life to what you already have. It’s a simple yet profound practice that can significantly enhance your happiness levels.
Every morning, take a few moments to reflect on what you’re grateful for. This could be anything – from the roof over your head, the food on your table, to the love of your family and friends.
Regular practice of gratitude not only helps in fostering positivity but also in reducing stress and anxiety. It’s a beautiful way to start your day on a positive note and cultivate an overall sense of well-being and happiness.
Final Thoughts: Happiness is a journey
The pursuit of happiness is deeply personal and unique to each individual. Yet, with small, consistent steps, we can all edge closer to our own version of contentment.
Integrating these eight morning habits into your routine is a powerful way to start that journey. They provide a template, a roadmap towards a happier you in 60 days.
However, it’s crucial to remember that real, lasting happiness isn’t just about doing certain things. It’s about cultivating an inner sense of peace and satisfaction, regardless of external circumstances.
In my book, Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego, I delve deeper into this concept. I explore how Buddhist teachings can help us navigate the complexities of life and find our own path to happiness.
So as you embark on this journey, remember to be patient with yourself. Change takes time.
Keep an open mind, stay committed to your morning routine, and let the transformation unfold organically. You might be surprised at how much happier you feel in just 60 days.
After all, happiness is not a destination – it’s the way we choose to travel through life.