- Rise and shine with sunshine. Increasing your productivity in the morning starts with a good night’s sleep. Studies have shown that exposure to natural light can improve sleep quality and provide health benefits. Enjoy a more restful night by avoiding artificial light and sleeping near natural sunlight. Sunlight can also help you wake up naturally in the morning time.
- Start your day early. Start your day your way, before heading to the office and diving into e-mails, phone calls and meetings. Wake up early and use that extra time for reading, journaling, meditating, enjoying your family or working on a passion project. Early morning hours will be under your control, helping you focus on things you’re passionate about.
- Jot down things you’re grateful for. Focusing on gratitude first thing in the morning can give you a positive outlook for the rest of your day. Jot down a list of some of the people, places and experiences you’re thankful for. Then consider future things you’re excited about. Having a grateful attitude can make you a happier and more productive person.
- Make your bed. This daily habit may seem like it wouldn’t make a difference in your day, but making your bed every morning can help improve your productivity. It gives you a sense of achievement, which leads to more good habits. And before you know it, this small task will result in checking task after task off of your to-do list.
- Wake up and work out. Begin your day with a pre-breakfast workout. Working out can increase productivity while releasing endorphins and reducing your stress level. Try Pilates, jogging outside or going for a quick bike ride. Looking to stay fit inside? Go online and choose a free workout video that suits your fitness personality.
- Plan ahead. Use the morning to think ahead. Plan out your week or month and think of strategies for getting those tasks done. It’s a great way to improve your time-management skills, plus you’ll be able to better handle tasks once you get to them.