We all know the feeling. You wake up in the morning, yawn, stretch, put on your fuzzy bunny slippers, throw open the blinds, and.....wait....why am I getting out of bed again? Bed is comfortable. Bed is safe, unlike that job interview later today, or that Algebra test you've been putting off studying for for weeks now. Why go face the music when you can drown it all out from under the comfort of your sheets? After all, who ever wants to get out of bed? Here's 5 ways to get motivated when getting your day started is, well, a no-starter.
1. Focus on the big picture.
Sure, an extra hour or two of sleep would feel absolutely splendid; however, is it worth it in the grand scheme of things? Probably not. It is absolutely essential to focus on the fact that long term success requires the sacrifice of short term pleasures. If Michael Jordan slept in every time he felt like it, you may very well have never heard his name spoken, and what would have been a world changing career could have perhaps faded into nothing. Keeping your focus on accomplishing your big picture goals is crucial in the fight to overcome the annoyance of whispering distractions.
2. Visualize the person you wish to be.
Give yourself a couple of minutes every morning to intensely visualize the man/woman you wish to become. After you've painted a vivid mental picture of your ideal self, take another couple of moments to think about the tasks that must be completed in order to make the transition into this person. Chances are these tasks will not include calling off work, or binge-watching your favorite Netflix show. "Become the person you've always dreamt of being" is quite broad; however, having a mental checklist of practical steps to take in order to achieve this goal will not only assist you in its attaining, but provide a real and practical source of motivation throughout your day.
3. Reward yourself.
Remember that Netflix show that isn't included in your daily tasks? Well, include it in your nightly ones. Having a specific thing you enjoy doing waiting for you upon the completion of the necessities will assist you in getting those things accomplished. How much easier is it to go to work knowing you're going on vacation the very next day? The phrase "treat yourself" is constantly uttered, and treating yourself is, of course, important; however timing is key, and reserving these treats as rewards is far more beneficial than simply indulging.
4. Exercise.
However many benefits exercise has, morning exercise has that many more. From simply waking you up, to physiologically lowering your brain's stress levels, A.M. exercise has a plethora of advantages. (See for yourself, it impacted this person's whole life!) Whether it be a leisurely jog or intense weightlifting, being active immediately upon waking up is bound to get your day started right.
5. Positive mindset.
The more you dwell on the negatives of getting your day started (lack of sleep, stressful tasks, etc.) the less likely you are to succeed in what you set out to do. The entire course of your day can stem from the mindset you establish in the morning; as opposed to thinking about all the things you're dreading that day, focus instead on the many opportunities that may present themselves, and the ways in which best to capitalize on those things.
The present.
Every single day is a brand new, never-before-seen gift wrapped in mystery and endless possibilities. Every single time the sun rises again, you are given a second chance. Whatever mistakes were made, whatever regrets you may have, whatever action you would have changed, no longer exists. Those things reside in yesterday, and yesterday is dead and gone. Today is here. Today is now. Do not squander the gift you've been given, because someday all you'll wish for is one more chance. That chance is now. Don't hesitate to take advantage of it.
