If you want to become a more joyful person in 60 days, start doing these 9 things every morning

The path to happiness isn’t always as complicated as it seems. It’s about the little things, like what you do each morning.

If you’re looking to become a happier and more joyful person, it’s time to rethink your morning routine. These first moments of the day set the tone for everything that follows and can greatly influence your mood and energy levels.

I’ve found that doing nine specific things every morning can make a real difference in my happiness over time – in just 60 days, in fact.

Below are the nine things I do each morning to make my days brighter and more joyful. I promise, they are simple changes that anyone can make, and they aren’t time-consuming at all.

Let’s get started.

1) Start your morning with gratitude

Let’s talk about the power of gratitude.

It’s no secret that people who regularly practice gratitude tend to be happier. The simple act of appreciating the good in your life can shift your mindset and energy levels for the day.

But how do you make gratitude a part of your daily routine?

It’s actually quite simple. Each morning, before you do anything else, take a few moments to reflect on things you’re thankful for. It can be as big as being grateful for your family and friends or as small as being thankful for your morning cup of coffee.

The key here is consistency. Make it a daily habit and you’ll start to notice the positivity seeping into other parts of your life too.

It doesn’t have to be an elaborate practice. A few minutes each morning is all it takes to set a positive tone for the rest of the day.

2) Incorporate exercise into your routine

Exercise is a proven mood booster. It releases endorphins, those “feel-good” hormones that can brighten your day.

I’ve always been a bit of a fitness enthusiast, but I didn’t realize the impact it had on my happiness until I started doing it first thing in the morning.

A couple of years ago, I went through a rough patch. I was feeling low, unmotivated, and just not myself. One day, I decided to switch things up and started my day with a quick 20-minute workout.

The difference was noticeable immediately. I felt more energetic, more positive, and ready to take on the day. The morning sluggishness was gone and I felt more upbeat throughout the day.

Now, exercising first thing in the morning has become an essential part of my routine. It doesn’t have to be a high-intensity workout; even a brisk walk or some light stretching can do the trick.

3) Hydrate immediately after waking up

You’ve probably heard about the importance of staying hydrated throughout the day. But did you know that starting your day with a glass of water can be a game-changer for your mood and energy levels?

During sleep, your body goes hours without water. This can lead to dehydration, which can cause fatigue and affect your mood. By hydrating first thing in the morning, you kick-start your metabolism, flush out toxins from your body, and fuel your brain.

Even mild dehydration can impair cognitive functions and mood. So, this simple morning habit can make a big difference in how you feel throughout the day.

Make it a point to drink a glass of water as soon as you wake up. It’s a small change that can bring big results in your journey towards happiness.

4) Meditate for a few minutes

Meditation can be a powerful tool for cultivating happiness. It helps to clear the mind, reduce stress, and promote feelings of peace and well-being.

All it takes is a few minutes each morning. Find a quiet space, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. Let go of any thoughts that come up and just be present in the moment.

As you continue this practice, you may find that your mind becomes calmer and you start your day with a clearer, more positive perspective.

Meditation is not about achieving a certain state or emptying your mind completely. It’s about awareness and acceptance of the present moment. So, don’t worry if you find your mind wandering, just gently bring it back to your breath.

Starting your day with meditation can set a peaceful tone for the rest of the day and contribute to overall happiness.

5) Enjoy a healthy breakfast

We’ve all heard the saying: “Breakfast is the most important meal of the day”. But it’s not just about filling your stomach, it’s about setting the right tone for your day, both physically and emotionally.

The food you eat can greatly impact your mood and energy levels. By choosing a nutritious breakfast, you’re fueling your body with the right nutrients to stay energized and focused throughout the day.

A balanced breakfast with proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains can keep your blood sugar levels steady and prevent mood swings.

Opt for a healthy breakfast every morning. It’s not just good for your body, but also for your happiness.

6) Cultivate a positive mindset

Starting your day with positivity can make a world of difference to your overall happiness. It’s about making a conscious decision to focus on the good in your life, no matter how small.

Each morning, remind yourself of your strengths, accomplishments, and the things that bring you joy. Look in the mirror and say something positive about yourself. Affirmations can be a powerful tool to foster positivity and self-love.

I know this may sound a bit cliché, but believe me, it works. It’s not about ignoring the negative aspects of life, but about choosing to focus on the good.

Start your day by speaking positivity into your life. You’ll be surprised at the ripple effect it can create in your mood and outlook for the rest of the day. It’s a small step that can lead you on a great journey towards happiness.

7) Create a morning routine that works for you

Consistency is key when it comes to happiness. Establishing a morning routine that suits your needs and lifestyle can help set a positive tone for the rest of the day.

For me, this meant trial and error. I’ve always been a night owl, so waking up early was a struggle. But I knew I needed a routine to start my day right.

I started by waking up just 15 minutes earlier each day. It was tough at first, but gradually, I built up to an hour. Now, I have enough time to do the things that make me happy like reading, exercising, and enjoying a slow breakfast.

Your morning routine should be something you look forward to, not a chore. So, build one around what you love and what makes you feel good. It’s your time to set the right mood for the day ahead.

8) Allow yourself some quiet time

In our fast-paced world, mornings can often be rushed and chaotic. But what if I told you that slowing down could actually make your day better?

Instead of jumping into the hustle and bustle, try carving out a few minutes of silence each morning. This quiet time can help you gather your thoughts, plan your day, and start off on a calm note.

You might think this means you’ll have to wake up earlier or rush through your morning tasks. But in reality, these few moments of peace can actually make you more productive and focused throughout the day.

Make room for some quiet time in your morning routine. It’s a small change that can have a big impact on your happiness and overall well-being.

9) Set your intentions for the day

Starting your day with a clear purpose can be a game-changer for your mood and productivity. This is where setting your intentions comes into play.

Before you dive into your daily tasks, take a moment to reflect on what you want to achieve and how you want to feel for the day. This gives you a roadmap and sets the tone for how you approach your tasks and interactions.

Your intention could be as simple as wanting to stay focused on a project, or as profound as spreading kindness in all your interactions.

By setting clear intentions, you’re not just blindly going through your day, but consciously shaping it in a way that aligns with your values and contributes to your happiness.

10) Embrace the journey

Becoming a happier person isn’t an overnight transformation, it’s a journey. It’s about taking small steps each day towards a more positive and fulfilled life.

Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to happiness. It’s deeply personal and unique to each individual.

Embrace the journey, experiment with these tips, and find what works best for you. And most importantly, be patient with yourself. Happiness is a journey, not a destination.

Final thoughts: Your happiness is in your hands

The profound connection between our daily routines and overall sense of joy is not to be underestimated.

Small, intentional actions, like the ones we’ve discussed, can indeed set the stage for a happier life. Scientists have found that our habits can significantly influence our mood and mental well-being.

It is crucial to remember that happiness isn’t just an end goal, it’s a journey that involves constant learning, adapting, and growing.

The morning rituals we’ve explored are not an exhaustive list but rather a starting point. They serve as stepping stones on your unique path towards greater happiness.

The key lies in understanding that your happiness is in your control. As Abraham Lincoln famously said, “Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.”

So here’s to making up our minds to be happier and taking the first steps on this 60-day journey. Remember, every new day is another chance to change your life. Let’s seize it with both hands!