In one minute you can change your attitude, and in that minute you can change your entire day.
– Spencer Johnson, of The One Minute Manager
Those first few minutes after we wake up may not seem like a big deal….but they are!
I think it’s so common to wake up, stumble out of bed, and mindlessly start the day. We’ve all done it many times. The problem is, stumbling out of bed can easily translate into stumbling through your day. Those first few moments can set the tone for the entire day. Are you going to let the day take you for a ride…or do you want to begin thoughtfully and set yourself up for success from the get-go? In this time of Covid-19, when our days are very different and may be more challenging, it is especially beneficial to start the day well.
Negative thinking first thing in the morning can impact your mindset for the day…
I didn’t get enough sleep. (whoa I think I might need to work on this one!)
I have so much to do today.
I’m tired and stressed and the day has barely begun.
I’m not sure I have what it takes.
I’m overwhelmed by this uncertain situation.
This is a scarcity mentality. Starting the day without intention, or with a mentality that there isn’t enough (time, energy, purpose, joy) can follow you all day and impact your duties, relationships, and goals.
On the other hand, having a disciplined and positive morning mindset routine can create patterns in your thinking that will have a ripple effect throughout your day…
I am grateful.
I can make the most of the rest I had.
I am excited for what is ahead of me today.
It’s going to be a good day.
It going to be a productive day!
I will love those around me well today!
I will make the most of today!
I will trust God in these uncertain times.
This is a mentality of abundance. Starting the day with the mindset that there is enough, and you are enough, is empowering and gets you ready for the adventure of the day, even though you don’t know exactly what the day will hold.
Think of starting the day well, with purpose and intention, as self-care that will not only benefit you, but also those around you. As Anne Lamott says, “Radical self-care is quantum, and radiates out into the atmosphere, like a little fresh air.”
I have a quick and easy 5 Minute Morning Routine that I share in the Train Your Mind module in my Unstoppable Year Course. The first two minutes begin with two simple steps…1 minute of deep intentional breathing and 1 minute of gratitude.
Run your own trial. Commit to starting your day with the deep breathing and gratitude, and watch the ripple effect a positive morning mentality can have on your morning…your day…your week. An intentional start to your day marked by an attitude of abundance and gratitude can impact you in a massive way!
I really believe this is so amazing; I don’t always do it but I’m thankful for when I do. And when we forget to start the morning this way, this exercise can be used it as a quick mental re-set at any other time of day.
I also like to finish my day thinking on what I am thankful for and also how I can forgive.
I hope this leaves you feeling encouraged!
Join me in my Unstoppable Year Course where we talk about big empowering topics (like Being Present and Training Your Mind) and include simple, practical tips (like a 5 Minute Morning Routine). We call it the Unstoppable Year… You’ll call it the best year of growth you’ve ever had!
