It’s no secret, some people just seem to have an infectious joy about them. It’s like they’re happier and more joyful than 95% of people. But what’s their secret?

Turns out, it’s not a secret at all. It’s all about the morning habits they’ve cultivated. They start their day in a way that sets them up for success, happiness and joy.

I’ve found 8 morning habits that these uber-happy folks swear by. These practices are simple, yet incredibly effective at boosting joy levels.

Ready to be part of the 5% who are happier and more joyful than the rest? Let’s dive into these morning habits and see how they can transform your life!

1) Early risers

Ever noticed how some people are up and about before the sun even thinks about rising? And they’re not grumbling and groaning. On the contrary, they’re happier and more joyful than most.

There’s something magical about the early morning hours. It’s quiet, peaceful, and free from distractions. It’s the perfect time to focus on you.

Many successful and joyful people swear by this habit of rising early. It gives them a head start, a sense of control over their day, and an opportunity to take care of things that matter to them before the world wakes up.

Becoming an early riser isn’t about torturing yourself with sleep deprivation. It’s about adjusting your routine to make sure you’re getting enough rest and then using those quiet morning hours to your advantage.

So, if you want to join the ranks of those happier than 95% of people, consider setting that alarm clock a bit earlier. You might be surprised at the joy it brings!

2) Mindful meditation

I was skeptical at first, I must admit. The idea of sitting still and doing nothing for 10-20 minutes each morning seemed like a waste of precious time. But, after hearing about the benefits of mindfulness meditation from so many joyful and successful people, I decided to give it a shot.

Now, I can’t imagine starting my day without it.

Every morning, I set a timer for 15 minutes, find a quiet space in my home, and just breathe. I focus on my breath, let go of my to-do list and just be in the present moment.

It’s not always easy. Some days my mind races with thoughts and plans for the day. But with practice, I’ve learned to acknowledge these thoughts and then gently bring my focus back to my breath.

Since I’ve started this habit, I’ve noticed that my stress levels have decreased significantly. I feel more centered, more aware of my thoughts and feelings, and most importantly – happier.

Mindful meditation has become a non-negotiable part of my morning routine. It sets a positive tone for the rest of the day and helps me be part of the joyful 5%. If you’re looking for a simple habit that can make a big difference in your happiness levels, give mindful meditation a try!

3) Exercise

Starting your day with some form of exercise can do wonders for your mood. It doesn’t have to be a high-intensity workout at the crack of dawn. Even a brisk walk, yoga, or stretch routine can get your blood flowing and your endorphins pumping.

Endorphins, often referred to as ‘feel-good’ hormones, are released by the body during physical activity. They interact with the receptors in your brain that reduce your perception of pain and trigger a positive feeling in the body, similar to that of morphine.

Regular morning exercise also aids better sleep patterns and increases metabolic rate for the day – a double win!

So, if you want to join the ranks of those happier than 95% of people, consider incorporating some form of physical activity into your morning routine. The benefits are not just physical, but mental and emotional too.

4) Nourishing breakfast

You’ve probably heard it a million times – breakfast is the most important meal of the day. And for good reason! A nutritious, balanced breakfast can set the tone for your entire day.

It’s not just about filling your stomach. The right foods can provide you with a boost of energy, stabilize your blood sugar levels, and prevent mid-morning crashes – all contributing to a happier and more joyful day.

People who are filled with joy and happiness often attribute their energy levels to a good breakfast. They understand that feeding their body the right nutrients first thing in the morning is crucial for both physical health and mental well-being.

Whether it’s a smoothie packed with fruits and veggies, a bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts and seeds, or a protein-rich egg scramble, make sure your first meal of the day is one that nourishes your body and feeds your joy.

5) Gratitude practice

Starting your day with a sense of gratitude can be transformative. It’s a simple practice, but one that can shift your perspective and fill your day with joy.

Rather than waking up and immediately thinking about the stresses of the day ahead, try focusing on the things you’re grateful for. It can be as simple as the feeling of your warm bed, the smell of coffee brewing, or the sound of birds chirping outside your window.

This small shift in focus can make a big difference. It sets a positive tone for the day and helps you approach challenges with a more optimistic outlook.

When you start each day with gratitude, it opens your heart to more joy, love, and positivity. It’s a habit that many joyful people swear by, and one that can change your life in incredible ways.

6) Digital detox

As soon as the alarm goes off, it’s tempting to reach for the phone and start scrolling through emails, news, and social media. I fell into this habit too. It seemed innocent enough, just catching up on what I missed while sleeping.

But over time, I noticed it heightened my stress levels and left me feeling overwhelmed before the day even started. That’s when I decided to make a change.

I swapped my morning scroll for a digital detox. For the first hour of my day, I avoid screens completely. No emails, no social media, no news – just me and the morning.

It was tough in the beginning. But now, it’s one of the most cherished parts of my day. This quiet time allows me to connect with myself and start the day on a calm and focused note.

If you’re looking for a way to boost your happiness levels, consider giving yourself some screen-free time each morning. It’s a small change that can have a big impact on your well-being.

7) Setting intentions

Setting intentions for your day can be a powerful practice. It’s about more than just planning what you want to do. It’s about deciding who you want to be, how you want to feel, and what you want to achieve.

This habit can be as simple as taking a few moments each morning to visualize your day and set a positive intention. Maybe today, you want to be kind, or focused, or patient. Perhaps your intention is to complete a project, have a difficult conversation, or make time for self-care.

Whatever it is, setting this intention in the morning helps steer your actions throughout the day. It keeps you aligned with your values and goals, and brings a sense of purpose and fulfillment that contributes significantly to overall happiness.

So, start each day with an intention. It’s a guiding light that can lead you towards more joy and satisfaction in your everyday life.

8) Connect with loved ones

In our fast-paced lives, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and forget about the people who matter most. But if there’s one thing that joyful people know, it’s the value of connection.

Starting your day by connecting with your loved ones can bring a sense of warmth and happiness that carries throughout the day. It could be a quick call to your mom, a breakfast date with your partner, or a morning walk with a friend.

This connection not only strengthens your relationships but also reminds you of what truly matters in life. It fills your heart with love and joy, making you one among those happier than 95% of people.

So, make it a habit to connect with your loved ones each morning. It’s a simple practice that can fill your day, and life, with immense joy.