There’s a world of difference between being generally content and being exceptionally happy.

This difference often boils down to habits. Exceptionally happy people have routines that set them up for success and positivity each day.

One of these habits is what they do before 8 A.M. These early hours can be transformative and provide the foundation for a joyful day ahead.

As a person who’s always intrigued by happiness, I’ve discovered certain things that these exceptionally happy folks do before most of us have even hit the snooze button.

Here are 9 things exceptionally happy people do before 8 A.M. to kickstart their day with positivity and purpose.

1) They wake up with gratitude

There’s something powerful about starting the day with gratitude.

Exceptionally happy people understand this. Rather than hitting snooze and grumbling about the morning, they consciously choose to start their day on a positive note.

Gratitude sets the tone for the day. It’s an optimistic lens that colors everything you do afterwards. It makes the good things better and the challenges a little more bearable.

It’s a simple practice, really. As soon as they wake up, they take a moment to reflect on the things they’re grateful for. It could be anything from the comfort of their bed to the love of their family or even the promise of a new day.

This isn’t just about positive thinking; it’s about cultivating a genuine sense of appreciation for what you have in life.

But remember, it’s not just about saying thank you. It’s about genuinely feeling it. Because when you start your day with gratitude, you’re essentially setting yourself up for happiness.

2) They exercise

I can personally vouch for this one. I used to find the idea of morning workouts daunting. I would rather sleep in than drag myself out of bed to break a sweat.

But a while back, I decided to give it a shot. I started with some light stretching and gradually moved on to a more vigorous routine. And let me tell you, it has been a game-changer.

Exercise in the morning kickstarts my day like nothing else. It not only wakes me up but also boosts my mood and energy levels for the day ahead.

There’s a sense of accomplishment that comes with finishing a workout before most people are even awake. This feeling sets the tone for the rest of the day, making me feel more productive and confident.

Now, morning workouts are a non-negotiable part of my routine. It doesn’t matter if it’s a 10-minute jog or an hour-long yoga session; starting my day with some form of exercise has made me a happier and more energetic person.

If you’re looking to increase your happiness quotient before 8 A.M., consider adding some physical activity into your morning routine. You might be surprised at the difference it makes.

3) They eat a healthy breakfast

Exceptionally happy people know the importance of a good breakfast. They understand that what they put into their body first thing in the morning can significantly impact their energy levels, productivity, and overall mood for the day.

Our brains run on glucose, and after a night of fasting, it’s important to replenish these energy reserves. A balanced, nutritious breakfast provides the fuel our body needs to function optimally.

Skipping breakfast can lead to a drop in blood sugar levels, resulting in fatigue and a lack of concentration. On the other hand, a healthy breakfast has been linked to improved memory and cognitive function.

If you’re aiming to join the ranks of exceptionally happy people, start by paying attention to your morning meal. Opt for whole grains, lean proteins, and plenty of fruits and vegetables – your brain and body will thank you.

4) They meditate

Meditation is a common practice among exceptionally happy people. Starting the day with a few quiet moments of mindfulness helps to clear the mind and set a peaceful tone for the rest of the day.

Meditation has been shown to reduce stress, improve focus, and increase emotional well-being. It’s a chance to connect with oneself and cultivate an inner sense of peace.

You don’t need to be a seasoned yogi or spend hours in silence to reap the benefits. Just a few minutes of focused breathing can make a significant difference. The goal is simply to quiet your mind and be present in the moment.

Consider carving out some time for meditation in your morning routine. It may feel challenging at first, but with practice, it can become a vital part of your journey towards exceptional happiness.

5) They set their goals for the day

Exceptionally happy people often start their day with a clear idea of what they want to achieve. They know that having a purpose and a plan can give them a sense of direction and satisfaction.

This doesn’t necessarily mean a long, exhaustive to-do list. It could be as simple as setting three main tasks to focus on for the day. This helps to prioritize their time and energy on what’s most important.

There’s something rewarding about ticking off tasks as they’re completed. It gives a sense of achievement and progress, which can boost happiness levels throughout the day.

Setting daily goals is about more than just productivity; it’s about creating a roadmap for your day that aligns with your broader life goals. This practice helps keep you focused, motivated, and excited about the path ahead.

6) They connect with their loved ones

In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to overlook the importance of our personal connections. But exceptionally happy people prioritize these relationships, even in the early hours.

Whether it’s a quick text to a friend, a morning cuddle with a partner, or breakfast with their children, they value these moments of connection. It’s a reminder of what’s truly important in life – love and relationships.

These early morning interactions can fill our hearts with joy and give us a sense of belonging. They remind us that we’re loved and appreciated, which is a wonderful way to start the day.

In the grand scheme of things, it’s not the material possessions or job titles that make us happy; it’s the connections we share with the people we love. Make it a point to start your day by reaching out to your loved ones; it’s a simple act that can bring immense happiness.

7) They avoid screens

I’ve learned the hard way that starting the day with screens isn’t the best choice. The moment I wake up, I used to reach for my phone, checking emails and social media notifications. But this habit was doing me more harm than good.

Checking your phone first thing in the morning can be a stress inducer. You’re immediately bombarded with information, requests, and news that can provoke anxiety and set a negative tone for the day.

After realizing this, I decided to make a change. Now, I keep my phone on airplane mode until I’ve completed my morning routine. This simple act has brought a sense of calm and focus to my mornings.

If you want to increase your happiness levels before 8 A.M., consider disconnecting from screens for the first hour or so of your day. Trust me, your emails and social media updates can wait a little while longer.

8) They spend time in nature

Exceptionally happy people often make a point of spending time in nature, even if it’s just for a few minutes in the morning. Whether they take their coffee outside, go for a morning run, or simply open a window to let in the fresh air, they understand the value of connecting with the natural world.

Nature has a calming effect on our minds. The sounds of birds chirping, the sight of trees swaying in the wind, or the smell of fresh morning dew can all help to reduce stress and increase feelings of happiness and well-being.

Spending time in nature is like hitting the reset button. It allows you to disconnect from the demands of modern life and reconnect with your surroundings.

Consider incorporating some time with nature into your morning routine. Even if you live in a city, there are ways to find a little bit of green – whether that’s a local park, your backyard, or even a few indoor plants.

9) They practice self-love

Self-love is the cornerstone of exceptional happiness. It’s about treating yourself with kindness, patience, and respect. It’s about recognizing your worth and taking care of your needs.

Happy people make it a point to start their day with activities that make them feel good about themselves. This can be anything from reading a book, writing in a journal, practicing yoga, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee in solitude.

The key is to do something that nourishes your soul and brings you joy. Because when you love yourself and take care of your needs, you’re better equipped to face the day with positivity and grace.

Happiness starts from within. So make self-love a priority in your morning routine, and watch how it transforms your life.

Final thoughts: Happiness is a choice

Happiness, at its core, is a choice that we make every day. It’s about choosing to see the positives, choosing to be grateful, and choosing to take care of ourselves.

Exceptionally happy people understand this and intentionally cultivate habits that enhance their happiness. They recognize that the first few hours of the day are crucial in setting the tone for the rest of the day.

While these eight habits are common among happy people, it’s important to remember that happiness is personal. What works for one person might not work for another.

So take these habits as a guide and tweak them according to your lifestyle and preferences. Experiment with your morning routine until you find what makes you feel joyful, energized, and ready to face the day.

Remember, happiness isn’t a destination but a journey. It’s about making conscious choices every day that align with your well-being and contentment.

So, as you embark on your journey towards exceptional happiness, ask yourself each morning: “What can I do today that will make me happy?” And then go out there and do it.