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Do you feel like you are always on the move, rushing from one thing to the next, with no real intentional time to process what is happening in your life?
Mindfulness is something we should all strive for, especially in a world that moves so fast.
By being more mindful, you are also increasing focus, productivity, and you are able to find more joy in the present moment.
It can be a challenge to be mindful when you are surrounded by distractions like social media, television, and are expected to always be connected and available to others.
Incorporating these tips can help you learn to be mindful throughout the day.
Practice makes perfect—start with just one or two tips and move up from there!
Stay hydrated
You know that drowsy feeling you get when you first wake up?
That could be from a lack of sleep, but it also could be from dehydration your body experienced all night.
Drinking sufficient water will help your body to feel its best.
Staying hydrated helps you feel energized and focused, which leads to being more mindful.
Basically, your body needs water to thrive!
Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night
It’s difficult to be mindful when you are tired.
The only thing you may be focused on is not falling asleep at your work desk!
If you do not get the proper amount of sleep each night, then you won’t be able to perform your best throughout the day.
Productivity and focus will lack, and that limits your ability to be mindful.
7-8 hours of sleep is the recommended amount that you need for your body to be awake and ready to handle whatever the day throws your way!
Start your day off with a mindful morning routine
How can you ensure you stay mindful throughout your day?
You start first thing in the morning!
Your morning routine sets the tone for your entire day.
We’ve all had those days (usually on Mondays—let’s be honest) where we spill our coffee in the morning, and the rest of the day is downhill from there.
By starting your day mindfully, you set the intention that you will continue to be present and positive throughout your day.
Some elements of a mindful morning routine are getting fresh air, stretching or moving your body, and taking quiet time for yourself.
Related reads:
- How to Start Your Day with Clarity and Focus
- Why You Should Make Time for Self-Reflection
- 10 Morning Habits That Will Change Your Life
Wear clothes that promote comfort and productivity
If you have the constant distractions of those heels giving your blisters or those pants that are just too tight, then you probably will struggle with being mindful throughout your day.
Wear clothes that promote both comfort and productivity so that they help you, not hurt you.
Getting ready for the day by wearing real clothes boosts your productivity, so maybe try to change out of those pajamas you slept in last tonight.
Remember that how you feel on the outside mirrors how you feel on the inside.
Map out a clear plan for the day before you sit down to work
It’s easier to get distracted when you have a million tabs open on your computer and no real plan for the day other than to “get stuff done”.
In the morning, be sure to map out your main goals and tasks for the day.
Start with three big tasks, and add on if you have time.
This will allow you to focus on the task at hand instead of jumping through tabs with no real end goal in sight.
Play music that promotes focus
Maybe that new album that always ends in a dance party is not the best thing to listen to while you work.
Save that for your breaks!
There are Spotify playlists that promote deep work and focus, and they can help you be more mindful.
You could also just listen to acoustic music, instrumentals, nature sounds, or whatever keeps you focused.
Music can either help or hurt your mindfulness, so choose wisely.
If you find music to be too much of a distraction, you can just turn it off!
Practice meditation consistently
Meditation is one of the best forms of practicing mindfulness.
Sitting in silence and turning your focus inward may sound daunting, but there are lots of apps that can work you through guided meditations.
Meditation teaches you how to be mindful, and you can utilize that skill whether you are meditating or not.
Pick a time to meditate, whether it is in the morning, at lunch, or in the evening, and try to stay consistent.
Incorporate time for movement and exercise
Exercising encourages mindfulness and helps you to drop into your body and be more present.
It teaches you to overcome challenges, stay resilient, and work through difficult times in your life.
The key to consistently exercising is choosing a form of exercise you enjoy and will look forward to each day.
This is a great thing to add to your mindful morning routine!
Get outside for some fresh air
Getting outside is a relaxing way to be more mindful.
Breathe in the fresh air, notice any sights, sounds, and smells, and enjoy nature.
Spending time outside can help you learn to be more mindful, especially if you leave your phone at home.
This can tie into incorporating time for movement or exercise if you turn it into a run or a walk!
Limit distractions that pull you away from the present moment
Our cell phones are probably the biggest distraction that we have.
When they are constantly buzzing with notifications, they can be difficult to ignore!
Do you find yourself constantly checking your phone and then wondering where you left off on work?
Try to turn your phone on silent or just turn it off during the day.
This will allow you to stay in your deep work zone instead of your shallow work zone, where you can truly be mindful and more present.
Check out: → 8 Ways to Have a Healthier Relationship with Social Media
Final Thoughts
The journey to being mindful does not happen overnight, and it starts with just a single step.
You can be in a great place if you start with these tips!
If you are more mindful, you will show up as a better friend, significant other, loved one, and boss.
You will get the most out of life by living in the present and not always reliving the past or stressing over the future.
Incorporate these tips into your daily life in order to be mindful throughout all of your days to come!
Michelle Gagliani
Owner & Founder
Michelle is the Founder of The Balanced CEO and a Holistic Nutritionist + Health Coach. She was born and raised in St.Thomas, U.S.V.I., and is currently living in Austin, TX. When she’s not running this blog and online business, she is cozied up at home watching TV, taking long walks in nature, or trying out new healthy recipes.
Oh, it’s just so easy to get distracted…especially if you use phone for work as well. Definitely something I still have to work on…
Oh yes I know the feeling! It’s a work in progress for sure!
I love this! Meditation is one of my favourite mindfulness activities and I always try to stay hydrated and get plenty of sleep. I never thought that the clothes you wear could affect your mood and ability to be mindful. Very interesting 🙂 Another one of my top ways to be mindful is by journaling too!
I love how you practice mindfulness, Ruth! Journaling can be so powerful!