Being happy and productive is the key to freedom in your freelancing.
A recent study* found that whatever the employee’s mood was in the morning, it stayed pretty much the same throughout the day.
But how to ensure that you’re productive from the get go?
In this article we outline our top 10 activities you should do to ensure you have a successful day…
1. Wake up earlier
It’s a fact that if you wake up earlier, you have more time in the day to get things done. Plus it’s a bad idea to wake up and immediately start rushing.
People are often more optimistic and ready to tackle challenges in the morning rather than the afternoon.
Set your alarm an hour or so earlier than normal to get the most out of your day. You need to dedicate some time to yourself (even five minutes will do).
Whilst this may take large amounts of willpower, it will soon be integrated into your routine and it will feel like normal.
Remember – the early bird catches the worm.
2. Drink a glass of water
While you’ve been asleep your body hasn’t had any water, so you’ll naturally be dehydrated in the morning.
Drinking a large glass of water first thing has been proven to flush out all the toxins as well as kickstart your digestive system and metabolism.
3. Stretch
Stretching first thing wakes up your body and gets your blood flowing ready for the day ahead.
By simply taking five minutes out of your morning to stretch, you will feel more awake, alert and ready for the day ahead.
4. Spend some time in the sun or invest in a sad lamp
Spend some of your morning in the sun if you can. Sunlight has many benefits to both your health and mind.
According to a study** “Exposure to sunlight helps to increase the brain’s release of a hormone called serotonin. This hormone is associated with boosting mood and helping a person feel calm and focused”.
Whilst the days are getting darker, another option is to invest in a Lumie Sad Lamp***. Recent research states that*** “bright light of 2,500 lux improves well-being. Outside on a sunny day, you can take advantage of 100,000 lux but in winter there may be only a few hours of very weak light and indoors the brightest office provides only about 500 lux”.
Avoid the winter blues, feel more productive and invest in your well-being with modern technology.
5. Exercise
Exercising is great for your body, both mentally and physically.
Getting in some exercise in the morning means that it won’t go missed on your to do list.
Walking is a good way to start your day, especially if you’re not as fit as you should be. It also helps to get your blood pumping and stimulates the release of endorphins.
You can also opt for higher intensity workouts such as interval training or rope skipping. If you have a bicycle, consider using it to travel to work if the distance is short.
Starting your day with exercise will boost your mood and prepare your mind for the challenges ahead.
6. Meditate
Start your day by clearing your mind with meditation. Not only does it soothe your mood, but it also helps to reduce stress.
There are a huge variety of free and paid apps, which are great for people who are new to meditating.
7. Write in a journal
Have a notebook or a journal next to your bed so if any key actions pop into your head you can write it down.
Scheduling some time to write down your thoughts is very important. It helps to keep you organised and clear your mind.
You could write down anything – for example, something that you’re grateful for or even something you’re wanting to cook.
8. Eat something nutritious
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and fuels your body.
A nutritious breakfast will provide you with the slow-acting sugars your body needs to help you through most of your hectic work days.
Don’t be afraid to indulge in a cup of coffee or two if you cannot function without your drink of choice. If you start the day by being moody, the rest of your day will be hellish as well.
9. Write down your tasks for the day
Prioritise tasks and set goals for the day early on means that you’re more likely to get everything done.
It also provides something physical that you can look back on at the end of the day to help you feel accomplished.
But try not to add more than five tasks on your list per day – this way you can ensure you’re giving yourself enough time to complete each task to the best of your ability without rushing.
10. Spend time with your family and friends
Your home must not become your 24/7 work. Work life balance is key and social interaction is essential.
Have a conversation or do an activity with your loved ones in the morning – making sure that you’re fully present in the discussion.
This will help to boost your mood and energy.
What do you do in the morning to enhance your productivity?
Sources:
* https://zapier.com/blog/morning-moods-and-productivity/
** https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/benefits-sunlight