THE 1-2-3 OF WAKING UP...

Whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, waking up is just something we don’t tend to pay much attention to.... but maybe we should. Those first few moments can significantly impact the rest of our day.

Bad dreams, a late night, busy day ahead, not enough rest... there’s a multitude of reasons we might wake up on the wrong side of the bed, however, you don’t have to be stuck in a slump all day. There are 3 key factors which can shift our mood and put us in a much better space psychologically.

Let’s be honest, it’s easy to perpetuate a groggy, flat or just plan “bad” mood, but who really wants to spend the whole day like that?

There are 86,400 seconds in the day, and YOU get to decide how you’re going to face them.

So, here’s my 3 tips

1) LET...YESTERDAY...GO

Don't procrastinate over conversations, mistakes or misunderstandings. We tend to worry in 2 ways; Backwards (“why did I say that?“ / ”what did they think of me?“ / “I should have done better” etc), and forwards (“what if...”). You can’t ”undo” anything from the past, and you’ll just keep your mind in a negative place if you constantly focus on past events.

2) SPEAK TO YOURSELF WITH KINDNESS

We tend to be incredibly unkind in our language to ourselves and it’s all too easy to focus on our flaws. We’re also hardwired for survival, so looking for potential problems comes as second nature too. Even more reason to create a few moments for positive thoughts around the day ahead. Try something simple like “I will do my best today” or “I am good enough“ “Something good will happen”.

3) S-T-R-E-T-C-H

There may well not be the time, appetite or resources for daily trips to the gym BUT, don’t under-estimate the value of stretching your body, even before you get out of bed if you like. Not only is it proven to reduce stress, improve posture and relieve muscular tension (that can build up during the day), but really connecting with your body can also improve your self-awareness. This self awareness can not only result in you taking greater care of your physical self, but can also enhance your self control. (Could be handy in one or two of those meetings or interactions right?!)

I challenge you take just 5 minutes each morning this week to focus on the above, and see what benefits you realise.

When we have a positive mindset, challenges are easier to overcome, opportunities and easier to spot, and laughter comes quicker. What do you have to lose?

Let me know how you get on 😊