According to a 2019 study by IDC Research, 80% of smartphone users check their mobile devices within 15 minutes of waking up each morning (I suspect that figure may be even higher today).
As you may have experienced firsthand, this often leads to stress and overwhelm, which can set a negative tone for the remainder of the day.
How can you overcome this impulse and instead start your day with a healthy dose of positivity and self-care?
Establish a morning routine that comprises one or more activities BEFORE checking your device.
It doesn’t have to take a long time, and you’ll gain a sense of accomplishment and create positive momentum for whatever challenges you face next.
Some suggestions include:
- Write in a gratitude journal
- Meditate
- Stretch
- Exercise
- Read
- Go for a walk outside
- Prepare a list of priorities for the day
- Brush your teeth
- Make your bed
Not convinced? Just listen to Naval Admiral William H. McRaven discuss the benefits of making your bed first thing in the morning during his inspirational 2014 commencement speech at the University of Texas at Austin: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r71L9PAIwRQ
What will YOU do differently tomorrow morning?
