Are you tempted to hit the snooze button when your alarm goes off each morning? Do you groan at the thought of starting your workday? If this describes a typical day for you, a few tweaks to your daily routine can help you develop healthy, morning habits to put more pep in your step and help you feel more energized.
1. Try bullet journaling.
These days, this journaling craze seems to be sprawled across the pages of just about every major online site. But what is it, exactly? Bullet journaling mixes your to-do list, events, and notes in a brief format called “rapid logging.” While it takes a bit of time to master the layout and terminology associated with bullet journaling, once you understand it, you’ll find it can be a great resource to track your most important ideas, tasks, and wishes. Bullet journaling for a few minutes a day can help you feel more organized and use your time more efficiently, so there’s less mental effort expended on trying to remember what you need to get accomplished—less mental effort means less time spent stressing out and more time resting or doing activities you enjoy.
2. Never skip breakfast.
You’ve probably advised your patients never to skip breakfast. But when it comes to you, often, it’s easy to prioritize others before yourself. To fuel your body for the day, you need a combination of healthy fats, protein, carbohydrates, and fiber to keep you on your toes. If you’re searching for simple breakfast ideas, check out my piece, Energize Your Mornings with These Gluten-Free Breakfast Ideas.
3. Begin your day with inspiration.
In a demanding job, it’s not difficult to sometimes feel overlooked or unappreciated. As a caregiver, you need to put your oxygen mask on before you tend to others. More specifically, you have to keep your tank full—remain inspired—so you can be effective in helping your patients. Finding inspiration can come in many forms, but the point of searching for it is to encourage your heart. Maybe a brisk, morning walk through nature will refresh you. Or, maybe you’re a spiritual person and a morning devotional is just the thing you need to uplift your spirit. Find your inspiration and make it non-negotiable to include it in your schedule each day.
4. Have a glass of water.
Dehydration can lead to fatigue; so, when you hydrate your body upon rising, you’re more likely to feel energetic. Plus, a well-hydrated body can help you think more clearly. Additionally, if you’re feeling sluggish throughout the day, reach for the H2O. Even mild dehydration can cause you to feel lethargic.
5. Put a morning playlist together.
Music has a way of instantly boosting your mood. Rather than slogging your way through your house as you get ready for work, put together your favorite tunes to feel more energized. Plus, no one will know if you decide to dance around a little while you’re at it. The exhilarating songs will get the blood flowing and do away with the morning grogginess.
