There’s a vast difference between hoping for happiness and actively pursuing it.
The difference lies in action. Simply wishing for joy doesn’t make it appear. But taking deliberate steps each morning can set the tone for your entire day.
Striving for a happier, more joyful life next year starts with what you do each morning. And I promise you, it’s not as daunting as it sounds.
If you’re ready to transform your life, I’ve compiled a list of eight things to do every morning. These simple actions can help catapult you towards a happier and more joyful year ahead.
Let’s dive in.
1) Embrace gratitude
Gratitude isn’t just a passing trend. It has deep roots in human psychology and has been proven to drastically increase happiness levels.
Starting your day with a dose of gratitude can set the tone for the rest of your day. It’s about acknowledging the good things in life, no matter how small they may seem.
Consider keeping a gratitude journal. Each morning, jot down three things you’re thankful for. They could be as simple as the warmth of the sun on your skin, the taste of your morning coffee, or even the fact that you woke up to see another day.
This practice trains your mind to look for the positive, even in challenging situations. And over time, this optimistic mindset becomes your default.
But remember, it’s not about ignoring negative emotions or circumstances. It’s about shifting focus to find joy in the everyday moments.
So, why not start your morning with a thank you? It could make all the difference in your pursuit of happiness.
2) Create a morning routine
Having a morning routine has been a game-changer for me personally. It gives my day structure and sets a positive tone from the get-go.
When I wake up, I like to start my day with a glass of warm lemon water. It’s refreshing and gets my metabolism going. Then, I spend about 15 minutes meditating. It helps me clear my mind and prepare for what’s ahead.
Following that is my light exercise routine. Nothing too strenuous, just enough to wake up my muscles and get the blood flowing.
Finally, I sit down with a healthy breakfast, enjoying each bite without rushing. It’s my time to nourish my body and appreciate the food I’m fortunate to have.
This routine doesn’t have to look the same for everyone. You might prefer a jog around the block or reading a chapter of a book. The point is to create a ritual that you look forward to each morning.
The consistency of a morning routine gives you something stable to rely on, no matter what the day ahead holds. Trust me, it makes a substantial difference in your overall happiness and joy.
3) Avoid screen time
Our lives are increasingly dominated by screens, from phones to TVs to laptops. But did you know starting your morning with screen time can actually increase stress levels and harm your mental health?
It’s true. The barrage of emails, messages, and news updates first thing in the morning can overwhelm the brain and trigger anxiety. In fact, it’s been found that people who check their phones immediately upon waking are more likely to report feeling stressed and anxious throughout the day.
Instead of reaching for your phone or turning on the TV as soon as you wake up, try dedicating those first precious morning hours to activities that nourish your mind and body.
Practicing mindfulness, reading a book, or even just enjoying a quiet cup of coffee can provide a much more peaceful start to the day. And remember, those emails and messages will still be there when you’re ready to face them.
4) Practice mindfulness
Mindfulness has its roots in Buddhism and is a powerful tool for cultivating happiness and joy. It’s the practice of being completely present and engaged in the moment, without judgment.
This means not dwelling on past mistakes or stressing about future uncertainties, but rather appreciating the here and now. It’s about taking in the smell of your morning coffee, feeling the warmth of the sun on your skin, or simply enjoying the peace of the early morning hours.
In my book, Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego, I delve deeper into how mindfulness can transform your life. I share practical tips and exercises to help you incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine.
Starting your day with mindfulness allows you to enter it with a calm and focused mind, setting the stage for a happier, more joyful day. So, why not give it a try? You might be surprised at how impactful this simple practice can be.
5) Exercise regularly
I’ve struggled with maintaining a consistent exercise routine for years. There have been times when I’ve fallen off the wagon, and the impact on my mood and overall happiness was evident.
Exercise isn’t just about keeping your body in shape. It’s also a powerful tool for boosting your mood and setting a positive tone for your day. That’s because physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural mood elevators.
You don’t have to run a marathon or hit the gym hard. Even a short, 15-minute walk or a light yoga session can do wonders for your mental health. It’s all about finding an activity you enjoy and making it part of your morning routine.
Trust me, starting your day with some form of exercise can greatly enhance your happiness and joy. I’ve experienced it firsthand.
6) Embrace silence
In our fast-paced, noise-filled world, embracing silence seems counter-intuitive. After all, we’re often told to fill our time with activities, to keep busy, and to always be doing something.
But what if the secret to a happier, more joyful life actually lies in quiet moments of stillness?
Starting your day with a period of silence can have profound effects on your mental wellbeing. It gives you a chance to connect with your thoughts and feelings, promoting self-awareness and inner peace.
This could be a few minutes of meditation, a quiet cup of tea, or simply sitting in nature. It’s about creating a sacred space for yourself where you can just be.
So yes, while it might seem counter-intuitive, seeking out silence could be the key to unlocking a happier and more joyful year ahead.
7) Eat a nourishing breakfast
We’ve all heard the saying, “breakfast is the most important meal of the day.” And it’s more than just an old wives’ tale.
Starting your day with a healthy, nourishing breakfast fuels your body and your brain. It kickstarts your metabolism and provides the energy you need to take on the day with zest and enthusiasm.
But it’s not just about what you eat, but also how you eat it. Savor each bite, appreciate the flavors, and avoid rushing through your meal. This mindful eating not only enhances your enjoyment of food but also promotes better digestion.
So make it a priority to start your day with a nutritious breakfast. Your body – and your mood – will thank you for it.
8) Prioritize self-care
If there’s one thing you should know about living a happier, more joyful life, it’s this: self-care is not optional; it’s essential.
Self-care is all about taking care of your own needs and making sure you’re prioritizing your wellbeing. It’s about setting boundaries, saying no when needed, and taking time to rest and recharge.
Start your day with a self-care ritual that makes you feel good. It could be anything from a warm bath to journaling or even just taking a few moments to breathe deeply.
When you take care of yourself, you’re better equipped to take on the day with a positive attitude and a joyful spirit. It’s the ultimate key to happiness and joy.
The crux of it all: It’s about choices
Human behavior and happiness are often deeply entwined with the choices we make.
One such choice is how we decide to start our mornings. These initial hours have the potential to set the tone for our entire day, influencing our mood, productivity, and overall happiness.
Choosing to incorporate these eight practices into your morning routine is a deliberate step towards cultivating a happier, more joyful year ahead. Whether it’s practicing mindfulness, indulging in silence, or prioritizing self-care, each action plays a vital role in enhancing your overall wellbeing.
In my book, Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego, I discuss the importance of conscious living and mindful choices in our pursuit of happiness. How we choose to live each moment can significantly impact our experience of life.
So as you embark on this journey towards a happier future, remember that the power to shape your days – and ultimately your life – lies in your hands… or rather, in your morning routine.
After all, happiness isn’t something that just happens; it’s a choice we make every single day.
