HEALTH + WELLNESS

By Connie Andrea

Given everything that is going on in the world today, we need this right now- we need a moment to step back, breathe, remember the things that make us happy, and just possibly, give ourselves the gift of having a perfect day. And if we're lucky, maybe we can have several perfect days in a row. If not, then this is a 4-step process that you can always return to, over and over again, when you need a break from the reality of the world. 

Setting yourself up for the perfect day means getting things starting the evening prior. Always take time to reflect on the day you’ve had, good or bad. You can journal it out or simply go over it in your head. What could you or would you have done differently with your day? What are a few great things that happened during the day and what steps can you take to make them happen again tomorrow? What are you grateful for? What mistakes were made today that you can learn from for tomorrow? How have you moved closer to your goals? Your journal doesn’t need to be perfect or structured in any way- just take the time to reflect and allow the words to come. Use this reflection to guide you the following day. Finally, write out the top three things you need to accomplish the next day- your 3 biggest priorities.

You’ve probably heard this before, but the way you wake up can make and set the tone for your entire day. Skip the snooze button and get a head start on your perfect day by creating a morning routine. You might want to set your alarm for a few minutes earlier in order to be able to stay in bed and simply relax. Try to spend at least 20-30 minutes waking up before you check your emails or start scrolling social media. Take time to stretch, go for a walk or exercise in some way. Getting your body moving first thing helps you to wake up, get those endorphins flowing and boosts your sense of alertness, wellbeing and happiness. Have your cup of coffee, breakfast and relax. Review your to-do list and your big picture goals. Try to set up 3-4 habits that will become a ritual you perform every single morning that empowers you and helps you feel ready for the day ahead.

To-do list in hand, you’ve got to know when is your most productive time of day to get started with your number one priority. If you’re a morning person, it is probably right after your morning routine that you’ll be most able to dedicate yourself to your most important task. The further away you get from your productive state, the harder it becomes to stay focused and the longer it takes to get things done, and it ends up stealing time away from other, more relaxing ventures. Do one thing at a time and quit multitasking. Dedicate specific time to emails or phone calls instead of being all over the map. You’ll benefit from increased focus and give more attention and value to the task at hand.