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Are your mornings chaotic? Are you doing more with less (time, support, ease…)?   If so,  here’s a great plan  to put on top at the end of each day.  Shown to improve your resilience and well being,  these are your best 10 habits by 10 a.m.

1 – HYDRATE   

Morning hydration jumpstarts your lymphatic and digestive system.

2 – STRETCH

The Mayo Clinic reports increased bloodflow to muscles will enhance your flexibility and range of motion.  Whatever the chase, (kids, dog, train, cab, airport..) you’re set!

3 – PLAY MUSIC

Scientists discovered when we listen to music, our brain releases hits of dopamine, and literally stimulate a “feel good”  experience.  But you knew that.

4 – SMILE

Not only contagious, your smile activates neural messaging, a trifecta chemical release of dopamine, serotonin and endorphins. You’ll reduce stress, lower your blood pressure and have a tiny happy party in your brain.

5 – MEDITATE

Meditate for as few as 20 minutes a day. You’ll slow aging, increase focus, benefit your heart and immune systems, and become generally happier. That’s the short list, really.

6 – BE GRATEFUL

Scientists have proven what we’ve experienced all along. A gratitude mindset measurably improves self-esteem, mental “grit” and enhanced physical health.

7 – TIDY UP

Create daily habits that support your greater goals. Clothes off the floor, bed made, dishes cleaned and trash out will improve your  mental clarity and creative flow.

8 – REVIEW TODAY’S “ TO-DOS”

Keep your list brief, mindful that quality beats quantity.  Allow 15 minutes after each major task to disengage, come up for air, go for a stroll, daydream.  This reference will help you craft an ideal list.  Practice this “Progress Principle”, the power of small wins that’s fundamental to human nature.

9 -WRITE AN AFFIRMATION

New research from Carnegie Mellon gives evidence that self affirmations protect against the effects of stress during problem solving performance. In addition, self affirmations also boost the academic grades of under performing students.  Bonus: whatever your time crunch stress,   “I have everything thing I need, including time”  works well.

10 – DO THE WORST FIRST

A key to self discipline, tackle the hardest task first. That tough call to a disgruntled customer or, a mundane but critical spreadsheet  build,  is best done first.  Often  it’s also the more difficult but crucial item. Put it behind you and watch your productivity soar.

Originally appeared on UniSoulTheory
By PJ Stone