It's easy to hate Mondays: they remind us of pressing due dates, tasks, and stress of the week ahead. But what we always seem to forget is that Mondays are also a symbol of a fresh start, a new week full of opportunities to make the upcoming days better than the last.
Instead of groaning and snoozing your alarms, try using these methods to kick off your Monday and motivate yourself for the week ahead.
1. Listen to music in the morning.
Mornings are so great because they signify the start of a day, with plenty of room for opportunities and positive experiences. I find that listening to upbeat music in the morning reminds me of the possibilities that lie ahead. After turning off your alarm, press play on your favorite song and shamelessly enjoy time to yourself.
2. Remind yourself how great you are.
Taking care of your mind is equally important as it is to take care of your body. If you're dreading the week ahead, read a few positive affirmations to brighten your morning and start off your week with a positive mindset. It's important to push away negative thoughts and feelings of self-doubt which can hinder our success in every aspect. This practice will nourish your mind and boost your confidence to ensure success in your personal and professional life.
3. Treat yourself to a large breakfast.
Mondays are much brighter when you have a heaping breakfast to look forward to. Eating breakfast will get your metabolism going and brighten your energy levels for the day ahead of you. With natural caffeine and sugar, apples are great to incorporate in your first meal of the day. Start off your week with a sense of accomplishment and a full stomach, instead of hitting snooze an extra time and settling for coffee on the go.
4. Meditate, even if it's only for a few minutes.
Before you become caught up in the hustle and bustle of the week that lies ahead, take a moment to reflect. I like to reflect on my mistakes of the past week, and consider how I can use this knowledge to improve upon the upcoming week. It's important to make time for your mind to relax and meditate in order to refresh and prepare for your day. Mornings and nights are the perfect time to put down your phone and set aside a few minutes to reflect.
5. Exercise.
Dragging yourself out of bed for an early workout sounds impossible, but you will not regret taking this time to take care of your body and to sweat out the negativity from the week prior. Even if it's only for a short run or a quick yoga session, any type of exercise will bring you confidence, as well as a sense of accomplishment early in the day. I love kicking off my morning with a workout to clear my mind and start off my week on a high note. There's nothing like an early morning sweat sesh coincided with your favorite playlist to jumpstart your week.
Monday morning is no longer a time to dread, but rather reflect, prepare, and excite yourself for the opportunities and happy days the week will bring. So before you classify yourself as "not a morning person," try using these techniques to jumpstart your week and uplift your mood.
