How to Kick-Start Your Day

You wake up to your alarm set for 6:00 A.M. When you set your alarm the previous night, you were positive that you were going to kick-start your day and be productive. Your heavy eyelids say differently, though. Before you know it, you've snoozed your way to 7:00 A.M. Sound familiar? The truth is, a lot of us have a hard time kick-starting our mornings. Have no fear. We are going to give you four tips on how you can kick-start your day:

• Stick to a pattern. For some of us, sticking to a bedtime pattern is easier said than done. We may get involved watching TV or doing chores around the house. We all have distractions that can interrupt a bedtime routine, but studies have shown that if you go to bed around the same time each day, you'll wake up feeling more refreshed and less stressed. So, turn off the TV, put the phone away, and you'll be ready to kick-start your day!
• Move your alarm clock. It's easy to wake up and turn off the alarm when it goes off. If you really want to get up on time, move the alarm to a spot where you can't reach it. It's an old trick, but it works for many people who want to get up when the alarm sounds.
• Don't skip breakfast. Many people skip breakfast because they aren't hungry or they're in a hurry to get out the door. You've heard it before, but we'll tell you again: Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and it can help you function more efficiently during the day. Stick with protein-rich foods, like eggs, or avocados, which contain monounsaturated fats – in other words, good for healthy brain function! With a healthy breakfast, you'll be sure to kick-start your day into high gear!
• Think positive. If you're starting your day with thoughts like, "here's another boring day sitting at home or going to work" or, "I am already feeling overwhelmed" you're not off to a great start. Instead of gloomy thoughts, replace them with thoughts like, "I feel so fortunate to have a wonderful family" or, "the weather is great so I'll definitely go for a walk." When you practice positive thinking you'll be much happier and less stress - what kick-starting a new day is all about!

With these tips, you'll be sure to kick-start your day and make it a great one!