Do you sometimes wake up feeling like you didn’t get enough sleep? Do you dread getting out of bed and going about your day? If so, you’re not alone. Millions of people struggle with their morning routines.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the “should” and “shouldn’t” of a perfect morning routine to help you start your day on the right foot.

Should: Wake Up Early

Waking up early gives you enough time to get ready for the day and also allows you to have some time for yourself. If you wake up late, you’ll start your day in a rush, and that’s not a great way to start things off.

Of course, waking up early doesn’t mean you should sacrifice the quality or quantity of your sleep. You should aim for 7 to 8 hours of sleep every night, so adjust your bedtime accordingly.

Shouldn’t: Hit the Snooze Button

Hitting the snooze button sounds tempting, but it only messes up your sleep cycle and makes you feel groggy throughout the day. Plus, it can make you late for work or appointments.

If you have trouble getting out of bed, place your alarm clock far from your bed, so you have to get up to turn it off. Also, try to get more natural light in your bedroom to help you wake up naturally.

Should: Drink Water

Drinking water first thing in the morning helps to rehydrate your body, which is essential after a long night’s sleep. This helps to boost your metabolism and gives you energy for the day ahead.

It’s recommended that you drink at least 8 ounces of water in the morning, but you can drink more if you feel thirsty. You can also add a slice of lemon or lime to your water for added taste.

Shouldn’t: Check Your Phone First Thing

Checking your phone as soon as you wake up can be tempting, but it can cause stress and anxiety, especially if you see negative news or emails. It’s best to wait until after your morning routine to check your phone.

Your morning routine should be focused on you and your well-being, so avoid distractions that can ruin your mood and derail your plans for the day.

Should: Exercise

Exercise is a great way to boost your energy and mood in the morning. It helps to wake you up and get you ready for the day ahead. You don’t have to do a full-blown workout, but even a short walk or yoga session is beneficial.

Try to exercise for at least 20 to 30 minutes in the morning, and you’ll start to notice the benefits in no time.

Shouldn’t: Skip Breakfast

Skipping breakfast is a recipe for disaster. It affects your energy levels, mood, and productivity throughout the day. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so make sure you eat something healthy and nutritious.

Some great breakfast options include oatmeal, smoothies, eggs, and whole-grain toast. Avoid sugary cereals and pastries, as they can cause a sugar crash later on.

Should: Plan Your Day

Having a plan for your day helps to reduce stress and anxiety. Take a few minutes in the morning to plan out your schedule and to-do list for the day. This helps you to stay focused and organized.

You can use a planner or a to-do list app to keep track of your daily tasks. Make sure you prioritize your tasks and leave some flexibility in your schedule for unexpected events.

Shouldn’t: Procrastinate

Procrastination is the enemy of productivity. Avoid putting off tasks until later in the day as this can cause stress and anxiety. Instead, tackle your most important tasks first thing in the morning.

You’ll find that once you’ve completed your most important tasks, the rest of your day will go much smoother. Plus, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment that will keep you motivated throughout the day.

Should: Take Time for Yourself

Finally, take some time for yourself every morning. This could be reading, meditating, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee. Whatever makes you feel relaxed and happy, make sure you do it every morning.

Taking time for yourself helps to reduce stress and anxiety, and it sets a positive tone for the rest of your day. So, make sure you prioritize your mental health as part of your morning routine.