How to have an awesome day

Having an awesome day is all down to YOU!!  No-one else (or shouldn't!)  has the power to control your feelings.  We all know however, that having an awesome day is easier said than done but here's some pointers to help you out:

Amend the timings accordingly to your own personal schedule:

6.00 am - Rise and shine sleepy head

Don't be tempted to hit that snooze button, you'll only end up feeling even groggier if you fall back to sleep.  Just take your time to wake up slowly and get your body moving.

6.15 am - Get moving

Some light exercise such as stretches, yoga or a walk round the block will help to set up your day, get the blood pumping and oxygen to your muscles.

6.45 am - Breakfast

Fuel up with something light and easy on the stomach such as fruit and yoghurt, porridge (will help to give you a warm glow during the winter months) or a smoothie.

8.00 am - Commute to work

Use this time productively whether it's listening to uplifting music, an inspiring podcast or a gripping audiobook.

9.00 am - Start work

First of all, plan and prioritise.  Make a 'To Do' list and start with the most horrible task!  Getting this out of the way early in the day means you won't spend the whole day dreading it and procrastinating.

12.30 pm - Step away from the desk!!

Take some time away from your desk at lunchtime, even if it's just a 10 minute walk around the block you'll feel much better for it.  You can even use the time to run some errands like going to the bank or doing some shopping or just sit quietly reading a book for a bit of downtime.  Lunch should be something light such as protein (fish, chicken, pulses) with salad or veggies to help refuel your brain for the afternoon ahead.

3.00 pm - Don't give in

At some point the dreaded afternoon slump is going to hit but don't be tempted to reach for a sugary drink or chocolate as your boost.  Instead, try a fruit tea (or black coffee in my case, naughty I know!) and a handful of unsalted nuts or fruit.

5.00 pm - Freedom!!

Leave your work behind the minute you step out the door and switch off.  If you don't like doing exercise first thing then this is now your time so head out for a run, gym, swim, walk, bike ride, fitness class, whatever takes your fancy.

7.30 pm - Dinner

Enjoy a balanced meal with complex carbohydrates (eg, wholegrain rice, pasta, bread), protein (fish, meat, pulses, meat alternatives) and lots of veggies or salad.  Aim to eat at least three hours before going to bed to allow time for your body to start digesting your meal so that it's not sitting heavy in your stomach.

8.30 pm - Relax

Read a book, catch up with your TV programmes or do some work on your hobby whatever that may be.

10.00 pm - Start to wind down

About an hour before going to bed try and resist the urge to keep looking at your phone, working on your laptop etc ('blue light' emitted from such items can disturb sleeping patterns) so read a book instead, listen to relaxing music or take a bath.

11.00 pm - Lights out

Try and go to bed at the same time every night so you establish a routine.  If you're not sleepy don't stare at the ceiling and get all stressed about it, just focus on your breathing and feeling relaxed.  I often listen to relaxation podcasts and before I know it, I've drifted off.