If you want to become a happier person in 60 days, start doing these 8 things every morning

There’s a profound link between morning routines and overall happiness. It’s not about doing what you feel like, but about doing what will set you up for a day of positivity.

If you want to become a happier person in 60 days, there are certain things you need to start doing every morning. It’s all about creating a routine that embeds happiness into your day.

In this article, I’ll share 8 things you should start incorporating into your mornings. And trust me, if done consistently, these habits can truly transform your mood and outlook on life.

Let’s get started.

1) Wake up early

For a lot of people, waking up early can be a real struggle. But believe me, it’s worth it.

The quiet hours of the early morning are a sanctuary for positive thoughts and mindfulness. Getting up before the rest of the world can give you a sense of peace and positivity that lasts throughout the day.

Don’t believe me? Look at some of the world’s most successful people, like Tim Cook and Michelle Obama. They’re known to start their days before the sun comes up.

The key here is consistency. Try waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps regulate your body’s internal clock and can make you feel more energized during the day.

The goal isn’t just to wake up early, it’s to wake up happy. So find what works best for you – maybe it’s reading a book, meditating, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee in peace.

Starting your day early can be a game changer when it comes to boosting your happiness.

2) Meditate

When I started my journey to happiness, meditation was one of the first habits I incorporated into my morning routine.

I was skeptical at first, but it didn’t take long for me to see the benefits. It gave me a sense of calm and clarity that I hadn’t felt in years.

Now, every morning before I start my day, I take at least 10 minutes to meditate. It’s my little oasis of peace before the hustle and bustle of the day begins.

You don’t have to be a monk to meditate, and it doesn’t have to take hours. Just a few minutes of stillness and deep breathing can have a profound impact on your mood and mindset.

If you’re new to meditation, there are plenty of apps and online guides to help you get started. Give it a try – you might be surprised at how much it can contribute to your overall happiness.

3) Exercise

Starting your day with some form of physical exercise can do wonders for your happiness. It doesn’t have to be a full-blown gym session, even a brisk walk or a simple yoga routine can get your blood pumping.

And here’s something you might not know: exercising in the morning can actually make you feel happier and more energetic throughout the day. This is due to the release of endorphins, known as “feel-good” hormones, during physical activity.

This boost of endorphins can help to reduce stress, improve your mood, and increase your overall sense of well-being.

Try to make time for a little physical activity each morning. Your body and mind will thank you.

4) Practice mindfulness

Mindfulness is a key teaching in Buddhism, and it’s a practice that has changed my life. Simply put, mindfulness is about being present and fully engaged with whatever you’re doing at the moment — free from distraction or judgment.

Incorporating mindfulness into your morning routine can help you start the day with a sense of calmness and focus. You could practice mindfulness while drinking your coffee, brushing your teeth, or even while taking a shower.

In my book, Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego, I go into great detail about the power of mindfulness and how you can incorporate it into your daily life for maximum happiness.

This simple practice can truly transform your mornings, and ultimately, your life. And remember, it’s not about having no thoughts, it’s about simply observing them without judgment. This can lead to a more peaceful mind and a happier you.

5) Write in a gratitude journal

I’ve had my fair share of ups and downs, as we all have. There were times when it was difficult to see the silver lining. That was until I started writing in a gratitude journal each morning.

The practice is simple. Every morning, I jot down three things I’m grateful for. It could be something big like good health, or something small like a warm cup of coffee. It’s amazing how this small act can shift your focus from what’s going wrong to what’s going right.

Over time, this practice has helped me cultivate a positive mindset and appreciate the good in my life. It’s been a powerful tool in my pursuit of happiness. I highly recommend giving it a try.

6) Avoid checking your phone

Now, this one might seem counter-intuitive in our hyper-connected world. We’re so used to starting our day with a quick scroll through social media or checking emails. But here’s the thing – it’s not doing your happiness levels any favours.

When you start your day by immediately reacting to external stimuli, you’re essentially handing over control of your mood to whatever pops up on your screen. It sets a reactive tone for the day and can leave you feeling stressed and overwhelmed.

Instead, try to spend the first hour of your day unplugged. Use this time for self-care activities like exercising, meditating, or simply enjoying a quiet breakfast.

Trust me, your emails and social media updates can wait. Prioritize your happiness first.

7) Eat a nutritious breakfast

We’ve all heard it before: Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. But it’s not just about filling your stomach. It’s about fueling your body with the right nutrients to keep you energized and focused throughout the day.

Try to incorporate foods that are high in protein and fiber into your breakfast. Avoid overly processed foods or those high in sugar, as they can lead to an energy crash later in the day.

Starting your day with a nutritious meal can help keep your mood stable and your mind sharp. So take the time to enjoy a healthy breakfast each morning – your body and mind will thank you.

8) Set your intentions for the day

Finally, the most important thing you can do each morning is to set your intentions for the day. This act of purposeful thinking can guide your actions throughout the day, aligning them with your goals and values.

Whether it’s being more patient, focusing on a particular task, or practicing self-care, setting a clear intention can provide a roadmap for your day.

Happiness is not a destination but a journey. And setting daily intentions can help keep you on the right path.

Final thoughts: Happiness is a habit

At the end of the day, happiness is more than just a feeling. It’s a habit. It’s about making conscious choices every day that align with your values, goals, and overall well-being.

And while our biochemistry certainly plays a part, it’s ultimately our daily actions that shape our happiness. The eight practices I’ve shared with you are aimed at helping you cultivate this habit.

In my book, Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego, I delve deeper into how these habits and others can help you live a more fulfilling and balanced life.

But remember, change doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time to form new habits. So, be patient with yourself. Celebrate the small victories and keep striving for progress, not perfection.

So, ask yourself: What small steps can you take today to make happiness a habit in your life?