5 morning habits of people who radiate joy and positivity

Waking up on the right side of the bed isn’t just a saying, it’s a lifestyle.

For those who emit joy and positivity like it’s their job, their secret often lies in their morning habits. It’s not about being born a “morning person,” but rather developing routines that set the tone for a fulfilling day.

I’ve observed these beaming individuals and identified five morning habits they consistently practice.

Today, I share them with you. Get ready to greet the world with a smile and an infectious aura of joy!

1) Exercise

You’ve probably heard it a million times, but it’s true – starting your day with exercise can make a huge difference to not only your physical health but also how you feel. 

It doesn’t have to be a strenuous gym workout, even a brisk walk or a yoga session can do wonders.

Let me share my own experience. I wasn’t always someone who enjoyed working out, especially not first thing in the morning. But once I started forcing myself out of bed and into my running shoes, I noticed a shift in my mood and energy levels throughout the day.

Now, lacing up those shoes is the first thing I do each morning. The run doesn’t just wake me up, but also gives me time to clear my mind and set positive intentions for the day. The rush of endorphins post-workout is like an instant happiness booster!

Trust me, starting your day with exercise is a habit that’s worth developing. It’s not just about maintaining physical health, it’s about mental wellbeing too.

2) Mindfulness 

Now, I know you might hear the word “mindfulness” and dismiss it as some new-age fluff. To be honest, that’s exactly what I did for a long time.

But there are real, tangible benefits to it. As noted by the American Psychological Association, mindfulness can lead to reduced rumination, stress reduction, and even less emotional reactivity. Sounds like a recipe for happiness, right?

But what exactly is mindfulness?

At its core, mindfulness is about being fully present in the moment. It’s the practice of bringing your attention to what you’re doing, feeling, and experiencing right now, without judgment. That might mean focusing on your breath, observing your surroundings, or simply noticing how your body feels as you wake up.

For those who radiate joy, mindfulness isn’t always about sitting cross-legged on a meditation cushion for hours (unless that’s your thing). It can be as simple as taking a few deep breaths before starting your day, enjoying your morning coffee without distractions, or practicing a short meditation session.

Trust me, give it a shot!

3) Positive affirmations

There’s an incredible power in words, especially the words we say to ourselves and those who radiate joy and positivity often start their day with positive affirmations. This isn’t just about stating optimistic phrases, but genuinely believing in them.

Positive affirmations are personal statements that challenge negative or unhelpful thoughts. They are designed to encourage a positive mindset and self-empowerment.

Think of it as setting the mental tone for your day. A simple, “I am capable and ready for today’s challenges,” can go a long way.

This habit isn’t about ignoring reality or pretending everything is perfect. It’s about acknowledging life’s challenges and facing them with a positive and proactive attitude. It’s about choosing to focus on the good, despite the bad.

Don’t underestimate the power of this habit, it could be the key to radiating joy and positivity throughout your day.

4) Digital Detoxing

There’s no denying that technology has become a significant part of our lives and there are many benefits to it. But sometimes, it can be overwhelming and distracting, especially first thing in the morning.

I used to be one of those people who would reach for their phone the moment they woke up. Emails, social media, news – I’d consume it all before even getting out of bed. 

However, I began to notice how this habit was affecting my mood and energy levels. I was starting my day feeling stressed and rushed instead of calm and collected. Sound familiar?

I decided to change things up and initiated a morning digital detox. No phone, no laptop, no television for the first hour of my day. Instead, I use this time to focus on myself – whether it’s reading a book, taking a walk, or simply savoring my morning coffee.

In short, it was a game-changer. 

Since then I’ve noticed that folks who radiate positivity also understand the value of disconnecting from the digital world to connect better with themselves. It’s a simple habit that can bring about a significant change in your daily life.

5) Gratitude 

This is perhaps the most important habit of all.

Simply taking a few minutes in the morning to acknowledge the things you’re grateful for can have a profound impact on your mood and outlook.

Whether it’s jotting down a quick list in a journal, saying a quiet “thank you” as you reflect, or even just pausing to appreciate the warmth of the sun or the aroma of your coffee, practicing gratitude is a simple yet powerful way to start the day.

The benefits are well-backed by experts, too. For instance, those at Harvard Health have noted: 

“In positive psychology research, gratitude is strongly and consistently associated with greater happiness. Gratitude helps people feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve their health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships.”

It’s no wonder that people who radiate joy and positivity prioritize this habit. Gratitude shifts your focus to what’s going right, fosters resilience, and deepens your connection with others—all of which lay the foundation for a happy, fulfilling day.

So why not take a moment tomorrow morning to give thanks? It could be the key to unlocking more joy in your life.

The essence: It’s all about intentionality

Radiating joy and positivity isn’t about perfection—it’s about embracing simple habits that set the tone for a fulfilling day. 

Whether it’s practicing mindfulness, moving your body, or starting with gratitude, these small changes can make a big difference.

Why not try incorporating one or two into your morning routine? You might just find yourself greeting each day with a little more joy.