It’s Monday. The first thought many of us have on Monday morning is ‘ugh’. Well no longer, dammit! Mondays do not need to be a drag. In fact, having a well constructed start to the day can make Monday pretty awesome (really!) and set the tone for the rest of the week.
Since Monday is typically the first day of the work week, I think it is only fitting that getting off on the right foot is all about being conscientious about the “firsts” of the day and week.
To begin with, there are a few things that you can do (most of them before you even leave the house) to get you feeling energized and ready to take on the world.
- First activity: As soon as you step out of the bed, stretch. Reach your arms above your head and up for the sky, then bend over and touch your toes. Spend up to 10 minutes stretching in different ways and taking some good deep breaths. This will get your blood flowing, your energy rising, and your endorphins releasing. Your way to an instant grin!
- First consumption: Drink a full glass of water. It’s important to hydrate your body after a night’s sleep and give it a good flush in the morning.
- First sound of music: Listen to a feel good song while preparing your breakfast, one that really gets you jazzed and makes you feel unstoppable and uplifited. (I have a list of a few songs to refer to so I don’t have to spend any time trying to recall one). If you’re as weird as I am, dance! Morning dance is so much fun. The alternative to music is to watch a short funny video. Laughter (if you’re not already dancing and laughing at yourself) is another great way to start the day.
- First communication: Make your first conversation/correspondence lively and upbeat. I think this is so effective. Type or speak with a smile! Include a compliment. Flirt! Start off with an extra positive communication.
- First outfit: All I can say is… make it cool and comfy with a side of edge! Nothing could make a better finishing touch for your Monday morning “smart start” recipe as knowing you are looking ravishing! Confidence is key. Who’s gonna stop you now?!
- First luncheon: Plan a lunch date with a friend or colleague whose company you really enjoy. Choose someone with whom you have positive and upbeat conversations. This will be a valuable get-together for both of you, and will serve as a great way to keep the momentum going throughout your (and their) Monday.
The main idea is to start strong & stay strong! The above items don’t take much but go a very long way. In addition to these things I would also recommend working out (even if you haven’t been working out at all and it’s the only time you work out all week, something is better than nothing). I love to run, or even just walk, first thing in the morning. This does wonders for my spirit. If it doesn’t happen in the morning, get it in after work or anytime of the day, for any length of time. Getting a good night’s sleep on Sunday night is also advisable. This will obviously pave the way to good energy and mood for Monday morning. And finally, keep smiling!
Use this list to your advantage any Monday and by that night you’ll quite likely be reflecting on what a powerful day you’ve had, and making plans to do it again on Tuesday, and Wednesday and every day after that. Just don’t forget to take it one day at a time. In the end, the level of energy you’ll have and how good you’ll feel totally depends on you. You get out what you put in.
Well that’s about it! I wish you all a very good complaint free, non-grouchy Monday.
Be you and enjoy it!
