Mondays.
There's a lot to be said for those Monday mornings that everyone so dreads. But why? How do we channel (in the words of yours truly) the lone ranger within us. The go getter. The independent, motivational spirit we all have (somewhere) within us. Because when the going get's tough, the tough get going. (Which means all of us ;)).
For me, its about (As Gok Wan would say...) 'If you want to feel good then you have got to start from within.' And isn't that the truth.
However, looking on the bright side and having a positive outlook (especially on those days where you can't even get out of bed, yeah you know the ones...) can be easier said than done. So, here are my quick simple tips to making those Monday morning's (and any other day of the week if your anything like me) a little more... je ne sais quoi? Oh wait, that's it, POSSITIVE. So, let's see if we can get you up and about, moving and a grooving (get on with it April...) for the weeks to come.
Presenting...
The Tough Time Tackling Tick list.
(Is that too much?)
This tick list is composed of my personal recommendations to feeling good, which in turn will turn that frown upside down and good ideas that will help you feel ready to get going.
Right! Let's GET GOING. (see what I did there? Okay, I've said that too many times right?!)
A GOOD NIGHTS SLEEP. There's nothing worse than waking up on the early Monday morning (or any morning for that matter) and feeling more tired than you were when you went to bed! I know, really not starting the week with that ready for anything, lets make it a good one vibe. (I've been there trust me its not). For more guidance and information visit http://www.nhs.uk/LiveWell/sleep/Pages/sleep-home.aspx
THE HEARTY HEALTHY BREAKFAST. An apple a day keeps more than the doctor away. (Yeah, I know, you've heard it all before)- "Breakfast is the most important meal the day" but I'm saying it again for all those (including me at one point, so your preaching the choir... or at least you were) who just fly by the kitchen for a quick biscuit or that spare chocolate bar that's at the back of the cupboard or sit down to a breakfast that isn't going to help you make the most of your day (yes, I'm speaking from experience, especially with three brothers). **(For all those who need an on the go breakfast expect a near future blog post for my fave on the go breakfast and lunch recipe's)** but for now, the key staples for this important meal are fruit, carbohydrates (to keep you burning that oil all through the day), protein and a small amount of healthy fats. (Follow these small changes and you'll be sure to challenge any day ahead of you. Remember, it all starts from within.)
For more details and help in this area try out
http://www.everydayhealth.com/health-report/healthy-breakfast/components-of-a-healthy-breakfast.aspx
MOTTOS AND QUOTES. Yes, you really did read that correctly, a motto. Who could be without one? Definitely not me. And I hope neither will you. Give yourself that little boost of confidence, feed the ego (not too much ;)) and get motivated with a can do attitude. They're a quick and simple way to get any day (especially the hardest of all for the majority of us, MONDAYS). With endless possibilities and pretty much able to be tailored to any circumstances, you'll never be with out a little pick me up. Words go a long way so why not use them to your advantage.
LIST THERAPY. Lists. The saviour of all challenging and task filled situations. (I for one am a big believer in its healing powers). Making lists, I believe, is one of the biggest de-stressing solutions out there. Putting your next hour, day, week, month or year (maybe more if your ambitious but we will get to that later...) helps to de clutter your mind and prioritize (yes, the word that carry's the sometimes negative meaning of compromise but don't let that fool you). Prioritizing needn't mean things to be struck off the list, but a hierarchy of things of most value or importance to that of lesser urgency. It's list therapy, if you want it on the list, its on there and its there to stay (no one can tamper with the magical powers your list possesses). Don't dwell on confusing thoughts and risk the inevitable frustration of forgetfulness, make a list. (Once you start you cant stop, its addictive!)
HYDRATION. As mentioned before, hydration is the key player In the game of success and your overall positivity. Giving the super powers of energy, refreshment and relief (to those eventual thirst cravings and the devil of de-hydration). Needn't I say any more? A life necessity is a success necessity. (Drink up ma hearties Yoho)
A PLAY LIST THAT WILL MAKE YOU WANT TO PLAY. Whatever gets you 'moving and a grooving' is a win (well, for me at least). Whip out those timeless classics or something a little more wild, and your bound to be feeeeelingg goooood. (Micheal Bublé never gets old...)
SPIRIT WARRIOR. (Okay, now this one may sound a little silly but does the trick) What better way to beat the day by channelling your inner Beyoncé or Miley Cyrus (if your that way inclind, I deffo am). Forget about small worries that have snowballed out of control and roll on past that lazy phase (yep, I deffo know that one too well) and GET YOUR SPIRT ANIMAL ON. Turn that feek up and join the party, with a can do attitude and the confidence and energy that'll get you to where you need to be and fast. (P.s my favourite tip yet ;) )
YOGA. If you have the time, yoga should be on the (and is definitely on my) to do list. Being fairly new to yoga I can 100% say it makes a difference. Any activity like a morning run or fun sport will start releasing those feel good endorphins and of course a breath of fresh air will get you going and do a world of good. Yoga is just one of many and my favourite (not to mention de-stressing) activity yet.
ABBITION LIKE THE STARS. Goals. Similar to list making, writing down goals, creating inspiration boards, writing an aspiration diary or creating a pinterest or simply putting some mental thought in to it can spur you and your drive forward. Being someone who frequently makes lists, plans and goals, big and small. Its a great time reflect and look forward to what you want to be next in store for you. (With that said its never a bad time to try something spontaneous and say yes to something wacky, you never know it may just take a turn to something greatly unexpected). Non the less its a great spur on and motivational tip to help you realise those Monday mornings will all be worth it in the long run for sure!!
COMPLIMENTING THOSE AROUND YOU. Again, words. They carry powerful meanings and messages. The ability to make someone else's day has the result of making your day. Being kind, polite and spontaneously friendly is as much a selfless act as it is selfish. (Remember, making someone shine, enables you too to shine just a bright).
and last but not least... PEOPLE. Following the last tip about others, surrounding yourself with likeminded and positivity boosting people are the relationships to cherish. Friends especially who you give and get back good vibes are without a doubt the top tippity top people you want to be around.
Right I think we will stop there, I could go on for hours, these are but a few of my top tips. With the hope that was some sort of use, non the less it was great to write and really get me thinking about what it is that makes me and hopefully others out there happy and ready for anything that may come their way.
Don't forget to comment anything that gives your day that little nudge everyone needs once in a while.
That's all for now folks,
xoxo -A
<3
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