Your New Monday Morning Routine
Written by Kristen Youngs
Who loves Mondays? Anybody? My guess is, no.
Monday is the start of the week for most of us, which makes it tough to get back into our usual groove. That being said, it’s also the best day to incorporate a new routine – one that sticks with you potentially forever.
Are you tired of waking up, feeling exhausted as you get ready for work (not just physically, but mentally), and heading into the week with anything but a positive mindset?
Do you get caught up with feelings of anxiety or disappointment after not having accomplished all you set out to do over the weekend, or after splurging on a night out with the girls?
There is a way to stop the mental unrest, and it starts with one single thought.
Gratitude.
How many times in your life have you taken a moment to mindfully focus on showing gratitude to someone?
Maybe every now and then, but not as often as you’d like to think, right?
Here’s an easy one: when was the last time you directly expressed gratitude to yourself?
If it’s been too long to remember, keep reading; your mind and body need this.
Showing gratitude is the single most effective way to shift your mindset, build confidence, and create an internal happiness and appreciation for life.
Implement this routine (it only takes 5 minutes) every Monday morning, and get ready to welcome a brand new outlook on life.
Here’s what to do:
- As soon as you wake up, get out a pen and paper and write down three things you’re grateful for. You might be excited for an opportunity you have at work, reminiscent about the lovely dinner you had with your mom the night before, or just happy it’s not raining outside. It doesn’t matter whether it’s big or small – anything positive counts.
- Write down one single goal for the day. It can be as simple as taking the dog out for a long walk or cooking a homemade meal. Whatever it is, make sure it’s achievable.
- Write down one thing you appreciate about yourself in that moment. Did you do a load of laundry last night so you’d be able to wear your favorite dress the next morning? Great!
- Every single Monday morning (or better yet, every day), rinse and repeat, but try not to write down the same thing twice.
That’s it.
It sounds simple…because it is. Simple doesn’t translate to ineffective, though. Try this routine on for size, and see how broadly it affects your day to day life