Life Lesson #1

What is the FIRST thought that comes to your mind when you wake up in the morning? What are the FIRST words that come out of your mouth?

For years, the first thing I would do in the morning is reach for my phone. The FIRST thoughts that would come to my mind were what messages did I receive? Who texted me? Who emailed me? What news is happening on CNN? Then I would get out of bed thinking about what I read on my phone. Can you relate to this?

Sad, but true, this is a component of societal measures. Reader, in this generation and decade, we are bombarded with social media and news. We forget about nourishing ourselves first. We fail to invest in ourselves before we can invest in others. We forget that the news, texts, and emails can wait.

Friend, I am guilty of this, and this type of routine was a terribly hard habit to break. The practice of over-checking our phones and devices and the frequent use of technology can change with this straightforward solution. Ready?

Place your devices and technology away from you. That's it! Sounds blunt? But this truth is so powerful and life-changing. You will thank me later.

• Charge your devices in the kitchen or a different room.

• Use the actual alarm clock to wake you up on time.

I have a Fitbit watch and use it for an alarm clock because it vibrates and works well! My husband also has an alarm clock, so we both can use it.

Reader, there is a habit you should develop when you initially wake up. I profoundly recommend that you speak loving and kind words to yourself. Here are the examples,

• "Today is a BEAUTIFUL day! I will have an awesome day!"

• "Today is a NEW day! Yesterday is history."

• "I am SO happy today is here. I cannot wait for today."

• "I cannot wait to see my friend (insert name)"

• "I cannot wait to see my kids!"

For me, seeing my kids every morning is exciting because they are pure joy. I love being their mom. See! I changed my way of thinking. Shifting your perspective is valuable. Your kids will see and feel the new change. They want to see a happy mom when they first wake up!

Seeing a brand new day is a delight because yesterday is history. Whatever happened yesterday is over. There is power in three simple words, "It is over." This means do not dwell on the negative stuff. Whatever painful, hurtful, or not-so-good things that happened yesterday are done. Oh, yesterday, I was exhausted, and my energy level was a rollercoaster. Now, yesterday is gone! It is over. My energy level gauge is brand new today! Today is a reset day!

Think of the green grass. They wither and die, then the fresh grass grows again, which means new growth, right? We are metaphorically the grass! New growth! New beginnings! New day!

Friend, enjoy today. Try to establish the habit of putting your devices away! Start a brand new routine to wake up each day with a positive mindset. Start investing in yourself. Take a look at the powerful word, "pause." Hit the "pause" button on emails, news, and social media. They can wait. They will always be there.

Love,

Ana