Start Your Day Right - Simple Routines for a Successful and Happy Life

CORE – Connections, Optimism, Resilience and Energy
If you are an athlete or take part in sports, you often measure your physical fitness level in terms of speed, stamina, strength and flexibility.  Studies in neuroscience and psychology show that wellness can be, similarly measured in terms of CORE -Connections, Optimism, Resilience and Energy

Connection - refers to how connected you feel with the people around you or the world in general
Optimism - this characteristic is a good measure of our outlook in life
Resilience - deals with our ability to bounce back from the inevitable failures and mishaps all of us encounter in our lives
Energy - how energized do you feel through the day?

The good news about these measures are that we do not have to be perfect at every level.  For example, pessimism does have a role to play in our life, but we cannot live our life in complete pessimism.  There are times when all of us have low levels of energy, a sign that we need to relax and rejuvenate.  Here are some good activities to start your day. Once you practice them regularly, they will take just a few minutes. They change your attitude, health and relationships in a dramatic fashion.

Pick at least one CORE mini-exercise in each category to start your day
Connections – Start your day with the awareness of all your connections 
At least three reasons to feel grateful and acknowledge your role in that gratitude.
At least three loved ones - how do they love you and how do you love them?
At least three co-workers – how do they support you and how do you support them?
Optimism – Start your day with a focus on good things in your life
At least three things you are you excited about?
At least three sentences – I am so glad I am not . . .
Acknowledge or give a smile to at least three people you meet
Resilience – Start your day with a reminder of your ability to bounce back
At least 3 positive things about your current challenges
At least 3 strengths that you enjoy using
At least 3 changes to your routine
Energy – Start your day with increasing your metabolism
15 minute meditation
15-30 minute brisk walk or exercise
Healthy breakfast that has fruits, vegetables and good protein
 
End Your Day Well!
Review your key action items – both short-term and long term goals and associated action item (Important and Urgent + Important but Not Urgent)
Keep a note pad to capture crazy but valuable ideas that come at the middle of night or when you wake up
Got to bed with a Blessing Meditation or Gratitude Meditation

Want some simple physical exercises based on Tai Chi, check out this video