Your morning sets the tone for the rest of your day: make sure it counts.
1. Your alarm startles you
Problem: If you're waking up to a loud pop song or the iPhone ringer, it's time to make a change. This startles your body and jolts it awake. It breaks up your stages of sleep and will most likely cause you to hit snooze and go back to bed.
Resolution: Pick an alarm that's a soft piano sound (almost like a lullaby) that starts off slow and slowly wakes you. Or, try to set a vibrating alarm on your smartwatch.
2. The first thing you do is pick up your phone
Problem: You turn off your alarm and IMMEDIATELY open Instagram. Using your phone for 20 minutes after you wake up can cause headaches and stress you out for the rest of the day. This isn't a huge "problem" but I can think of a few different, healthier ways to start your day.
Resolution: Do some yoga, turn on a motivational podcast while you take a shower, read a chapter of a book you're working on; the phone will be there when you get back.
3. You don't make your bed
Problem: Look, for the first 18 years of my life, I RARELY made my bed. Mornings are hard. I have very little energy, let alone enough to make my bed.
Resolution: Making your bed is one of your first productive tasks of the day. Checking that off your list leads to a more productive day.
4. Skipping breakfast
Problem: No, Carmel Iced Coffee is not considered breakfast. Skipping breakfast is proven to lead to overeating later in the day and slowing your metabolism.
Resolution: Make some oatmeal and top it with some granola, coconut flakes, strawberries, and a little peanut butter for a balanced meal.