8 morning habits that are hard to adopt but will make you much happier

There’s a massive gap between knowing what would make us happier and actually implementing those habits into our daily lives.

This gap is often particularly wide in the morning. We all know that a few simple changes to our morning routine could make our entire day go better, but it’s so hard to get out of our comfy beds and actually do it.

Well folks, I’m here to tell you that yes, adopting new morning habits is tough. But trust me, it’s worth it.

In this article, I’ll share 8 morning habits that might be hard to adopt, but I promise you, they will make you much happier.

Let’s dive right in.

1) Embrace the early bird lifestyle

We’ve all heard the saying, “the early bird catches the worm.”

But let’s be honest, waking up early can feel like an uphill battle, especially if you’re not a natural morning person.

However, numerous studies have shown that early risers are often happier and more proactive. They get a head start on the day, have time for a healthy breakfast and can even fit in some exercise or personal time before the day’s tasks begin.

While it may be difficult to adjust your sleep cycle and start waking up earlier, the potential benefits to your overall happiness are significant.

And remember, it doesn’t have to be a drastic change. Even waking up just 15 minutes earlier can make a difference. You’ll be amazed at how much you can accomplish before most people have even hit snooze for the first time.

2) Start your day with gratitude

I used to wake up and immediately check my phone, scrolling through emails and social media.

But I found this was starting my day on a note of stress and comparison. So, I decided to make a change.

Now, before my feet even hit the floor, I take a moment to think about what I’m grateful for. It could be something big or something as small as the warm sun streaming through my window.

It wasn’t easy at first, breaking the habit of reaching for my phone. But starting my day with a moment of gratitude has truly made a difference in my overall mood and outlook.

3) Hydrate immediately

After a long night of sleep, our bodies wake up naturally dehydrated. Drinking a glass of water first thing in the morning helps to kickstart your metabolism and rehydrate your body, improving your overall health and well-being.

Not only does this simple routine boost your energy levels for the day, but it also aids in digestion and keeps your skin looking fresh and radiant.

While it might be tempting to go straight for the coffee pot, try starting with a glass of water instead. It’s a small change that can have a big impact on your happiness and well-being.

4) Spend some time in meditation

Buddhism has long advocated for the benefits of meditation. It’s a practice that encourages mindfulness, reduces stress, and promotes overall well-being.

But here’s the thing: many people find it hard to adopt because they think it requires a lot of time and effort. The truth is, even a few minutes of meditation can make a significant difference to your day.

In my book, Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego, I talk about how incorporating small moments of mindfulness into your day can lead to greater happiness.

It’s not about spending hours in lotus position; it’s about taking a few moments each morning to focus on your breath, clear your mind, and set positive intentions for the day.

5) Exercise, even if it’s just a little

I’ll be the first to admit, I’m not always enthusiastic about exercising, especially in the morning. But over time, I’ve come to realize that even a small amount of physical activity can make a big difference.

It doesn’t have to be an intense workout session. It could be as simple as a ten-minute stretch routine or a quick walk around the block.

What matters is making an effort to move your body and get your heart rate up. It sets a positive tone for the day, boosts your mood and energy levels, and helps you feel more awake and alert.

6) Limit your choices

It may sound odd, but limiting your choices in the morning can actually make you happier.

Decision fatigue is real. Each decision we make, no matter how small, uses up a bit of our mental energy. By the end of the day, we’re often left feeling drained and overwhelmed.

This is where simplicity comes into play. By reducing the number of decisions you have to make in the morning – like what to wear or what to eat for breakfast – you can conserve your mental energy for more important tasks later in the day.

It might feel strange to limit your options, but give it a go. You might just find that less really is more when it comes to starting your day off right.

7) Create a morning routine

Routines can be powerful. They provide structure, reduce stress and can even help improve your sleep.

Creating a morning routine that you love can make waking up something to look forward to. It could be as simple as reading a few pages of a book, enjoying a cup of coffee on your balcony, or practicing yoga.

The key is to find activities that you enjoy and that set a positive tone for your day.

It might take some time to figure out what works best for you, and it might feel challenging to stick with it at first. But once you find your groove, you’ll likely find that your morning routine is something you won’t want to skip.

8) Prioritize sleep

None of these morning habits will be effective if you’re not getting enough sleep.

Quality sleep is the foundation of a good morning routine and overall happiness. It rejuvenates your body, sharpens your mind, and helps you tackle the day with energy and positivity.

Make it a habit to prioritize your sleep. Create a calming bedtime routine, maintain a regular sleep schedule, and ensure your bedroom is conducive for quality rest.

Better mornings start the night before. Prioritizing sleep may be challenging in our fast-paced world, but it’s undoubtedly the most crucial habit for happiness.

Final thoughts: It’s all about intention

Creating a morning routine is more than just a set of activities; it’s about setting an intention for how you want to live your day, and by extension, your life.

Each of the habits we’ve discussed is like a building block, contributing to the overall structure of your day. They can help to set the tone, provide direction, and infuse your day with purpose and positivity.

But remember, adopting new habits is a process. It can be challenging, and that’s okay. What matters most is the intention behind it.

In my book, “Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego”, I talk about the power of intention and mindfulness in creating a fulfilling life.

So as you consider these morning habits, think about their potential impact on your life. How might they help you live with more happiness? What changes could they bring to your daily routine?

The answers to these questions are deeply personal, and they’re worth exploring. So take some time today to ponder them. After all, happiness isn’t a destination; it’s a journey that starts each morning when we open our eyes.