There’s a stark contrast between those who start their day off right and those who don’t, and it often boils down to habits.
Psychology suggests that certain morning routines can set the tone for the rest of the day, even determining our overall happiness.
Unsurprisingly, there are certain morning habits that people who struggle to find true happiness tend to have in common.
Drawing from psychology, I’m going to share 8 morning habits of individuals who may never really find happiness. This isn’t meant to judge, but to shed light on routines that could potentially dampen your joy. Stick around if you’re curious – you might discover a habit or two you’d want to change.
1) Hitting the snooze button
We’ve all been there. The alarm goes off, and instead of hopping out of bed, you hit the snooze button.
There’s a certain allure to those few extra minutes of sleep, but psychology suggests that this habit might be doing more harm than good.
When you hit snooze, you’re telling your brain that it’s okay to go back to sleep. This can mess with your body’s internal clock, making you feel groggy and disoriented when you finally do get up.
Moreover, it sets a negative tone for the day ahead. You’re essentially starting your morning by procrastinating, which isn’t the best way to kickstart a productive and happy day.
If you want to wake up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day, try setting your alarm for the time you actually need to get up, and resist the temptation to hit snooze. It might be a tough habit to break, but your overall happiness might thank you for it.
2) Skipping breakfast
I’ll admit, I used to be a serial breakfast-skipper. I would rush out the door with only a cup of coffee in my hand, thinking I was saving time.
But according to psychology, skipping breakfast can lead to negative mood swings throughout the day. It’s not just about the physical hunger – missing out on the first meal of the day can lead to feelings of deprivation and irritability.
Moreover, it was found that people who regularly eat breakfast are generally in better spirits and have a more positive outlook on life.
Since I’ve made a conscious effort to start my day with a nutritious meal, I’ve noticed a significant difference in both my mood and energy levels. So, if you’re often skipping breakfast in the rush of morning routines, you might want to reconsider.
3) Neglecting physical activity
Despite the common assumption that morning workouts are reserved for the fitness obsessed, incorporating some form of physical activity into your morning routine can do wonders for your mood.
When you exercise, your body releases endorphins – chemicals in the brain that act as natural painkillers and mood elevators. It’s why you often hear about the ‘runner’s high’.
One study published in the Journal of Health Psychology found that people who exercised felt better about their bodies, even if they didn’t see any physical changes. This boost in body confidence can translate to overall happiness.
So, whether it’s a brisk walk around the block or a full-blown gym session, moving your body in the morning could be the key to starting your day on a happier note.
4) Checking your phone immediately
In the digital age, it’s tempting to grab your phone first thing in the morning and scroll through social media or check emails. But this habit can set you up for stress and anxiety.
Starting your day with external influences, be it work emails or social media posts, can impact your mood and mindset. You’re essentially allowing other people’s priorities or highlight reels to dictate how you start your day.
Instead, consider giving yourself some tech-free time in the morning. Use those first moments of the day to focus on you – whether that’s through meditation, reading, or simply enjoying a quiet cup of coffee. You might just find that this sets a more positive and balanced tone for the day ahead.
5) Ignoring gratitude
It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life and forget to pause and appreciate the good things we have.
But having a habit of ignoring gratitude, especially in the first part of your day, can cloud your perspective and potentially hinder happiness.
Practicing gratitude has been linked to increased levels of happiness, according to numerous psychological studies. It shifts our focus from what’s lacking or wrong in our lives to what’s already good and abundant.
Try starting your day by listing a few things you’re grateful for. It doesn’t have to be grandiose – even the smallest things, like a warm cup of coffee or a sunny morning, can make a significant difference in how you perceive your day ahead. By fostering an attitude of appreciation, you’re more likely to cultivate a happier outlook on life.
6) Rushing through the morning
I used to be one of those people who was always in a rush in the morning. Jumping from task to task, eating breakfast while answering emails, and hurrying out the door.
This constant state of hurry created a sense of chaos that carried throughout my day, making it difficult to find peace and happiness.
When we rush through our mornings, we set a frantic pace for the rest of the day. Instead of savoring our coffee or enjoying the quiet before the day begins, we’re already stressing about what’s ahead.
Taking a few moments in the morning to slow down and be present can change this. It could be as simple as sitting quietly with your coffee or taking a few deep breaths before starting your day. This small change has made a big difference for me, and it could for you too.
7) Neglecting self-care
Self-care isn’t just a buzzword, it’s an essential part of maintaining mental and emotional health. And neglecting it, especially in the morning, can set a negative tone for the day.
Whether it’s taking a long shower, practicing yoga, or spending a few minutes journaling, prioritizing self-care in the morning can help you start your day feeling grounded and cared for.
Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t selfish. It’s necessary to ensure you’re in the right state of mind to tackle your daily tasks and challenges. Prioritizing self-care in your morning routine could be a game-changer for your overall happiness.
8) Forgetting to plan your day
One of the most significant habits that can negatively impact your happiness is forgetting to plan your day. A lack of planning can lead to a sense of chaos, unproductivity, and ultimately, dissatisfaction.
By setting clear intentions for your day in the morning, you’re more likely to stay focused, achieve your goals, and feel a sense of accomplishment. This doesn’t mean you need to schedule every minute, but having a general outline can provide structure and purpose.
So, take a few moments each morning to jot down your top priorities for the day. This simple habit could be the key to transforming your mornings – and your overall happiness.
Final thoughts: It’s about awareness
The complexities of human happiness are deeply intertwined with our habits and behaviors, particularly those we practice in the morning.
According to psychology, our morning routine can set the tone for the day and significantly impact our overall sense of well-being and contentment.
The eight habits we’ve discussed are not definitive predictors of unhappiness but rather potential barriers that could keep us from experiencing true joy.
It’s important to remember that change starts with awareness. By identifying these habits, we can take steps to modify them and potentially transform our mornings – and perhaps, our overall happiness.
So, whether it’s incorporating gratitude into your morning routine, avoiding the snooze button, or making time for breakfast, remember that even the smallest changes can make a big difference. It’s all about creating a morning routine that aligns with your personal needs and contributes to your overall well-being.
As they say, “The morning is the rudder of the day.” So, steer it towards happiness.
