Kick-Start Your Brain In The Morning

We've all heard that eating a good breakfast is important in the morning. Here are a few other aspects of a morning routine that can enhance your day, too:

• Have a happy thought. When you first wake up, even before you get up, think a happy thought. Think about what you're grateful for, or what you're looking forward to about the day. Ignore creeping doubts for now.
• Take deep breaths. The oxygen will fire up your neurons and enhance your mood. Stretching, yoga, or brief exercise can help you breathe deep. Relax your muscles as you breathe. You can do this all through your morning routine, even as you enjoy a cup of coffee or tea.
• Plan the day. Take five or ten minutes to sort through all your appointments and to-do's for the day. Get it out of the mind and onto something you can see. The less clutter in your brain, the more focused you can be.
• Picture the outcome. Before you get to work, imagine a positive day, meeting, or project. Actions tend to follow intentions.