7 Ways to Have a Good Morning

Wake Up to Pleasant Sounds

Whoever thought that the blaring of an alarm clock beeping loudly into your subconscious was the best way to wake up was wrong. A good morning starts with waking up gently and serenely, and that has a lot to do with those first early morning sounds.

Through repetition (and perhaps a few backup alarms until you get the hang of it), you can train your body to wake up to the sound of anything. Find sounds that soothe you: wind chimes, bells or your favorite music. For example, I found the classical music station on my clock radio and set my alarm to play that every day at six in the morning. Eventually, the soft noises of Bach and Beethoven were my signal to wake up even from the deepest sleep.

Eat Breakfast

Just think about it: a hearty omelet, sizzling bacon, a bowl of crisp cereal, fluffy pancakes, a rich cup of coffee, a tall glass of orange juice… Aren’t your taste buds watering? Of course, they are. It’s breakfast! It’s the first meal of the day and it’s also the most important.

I'm talking about a real breakfast – not just a cup of coffee or a doughnut. When you take time to eat a well balanced meal, you are giving your body fuel for the morning. Plus, you’re less likely to binge at lunch or snack mindlessly throughout your day.

It’s also sets a good example for your children. Eating together in the morning leads to more family time, and you’re setting your kids up to perform better in school.

Kiss Your Loved Ones

The hug and kiss I got from my mother every day before I went to school still warms my heart today. Even on the days I didn’t appreciate it, I believe the act sunk down into my spirit; I knew I was loved.

Be liberal with your affection. Don’t let anyone in your household walk out the door without knowing they are special.

This doesn’t just apply to those of you with immediate family members in your homes. If you live alone, take a moment to send a quick "thinking of you" email. Call a friend on their work phone, so he or she arrives to the office with a pleasant voicemail.

Do something every day that shows someone else that you care. You will be a part of their good morning and brighten the rest of their day.