3 Simple Hacks to Revive That Stale Morning Routine and Boost Productivity

Not a morning person?

Getting up in the morning can be one of the hardest parts of your day, especially if you need to wake up early.

If you're feeling sluggish and slow first thing in the morning, a few simple changes in your everyday morning routine could make a big difference.

In this recent article from Entrepreneur, you'll find a bunch of things you can try.

Different things work for different people, but anyone can find something that's effective for them.

Whether the solution is working out first thing in the morning, or avoiding work-related screen time for the first hour of your day, you can start actually enjoying the beginning of your day.

1. Start with exercise.

Researchers at the University of Bristol found that people who exercise during the workday have more energy and a more positive outlook, which are both critical to getting things done. Getting your body moving for as little as 10 minutes releases GABA, a neurotransmitter that makes your brain feel soothed and keeps you in control of your impulses. Exercising first thing in the morning ensures that you’ll have the time for it, and it improves your self-control and energy levels all day long.

2. But drink some lemon water first.

Drinking lemon water as soon as you wake up spikes your energy levels physically and mentally. Lemon water gives you steady, natural energy that lasts the length of the day by improving nutrient absorption in your stomach. You need to drink it first thing in the morning (on an empty stomach) to ensure full absorption.

You should also wait 15–30 minutes after drinking it before eating (perfect time to squeeze in some exercise). Lemons are packed with nutrients; they’re chock full of potassium, vitamin C and antioxidants. If you’re under 150 pounds, drink the juice of half a lemon (a full lemon if you’re over 150 pounds). Don’t drink the juice without water because it’s hard on your teeth.

3. No screen time until breakfast.

When you dive straight into e-mails, texts and Facebook, you lose focus and your morning succumbs to the wants and needs of other people. It’s much healthier to take those precious first moments of the day to do something relaxing that sets a calm, positive tone for your day. Jumping right into electronics has the opposite effect — it’s a frantic way to start your day. Exercising, meditating or even watching the birds out the window are all great ways to start the day.

You can learn more about improving your morning routine at Entrepreneur, including seven more tips and tricks.