9 things unhappy people do at the start of every day

Lucas Graham by Lucas Graham | October 18, 2024, 7:27 pm

There’s a striking contrast between happy people and unhappy ones, and it starts right from the beginning of the day.

Unhappy people often fall into certain patterns – little routines they do each morning that set the tone for their entire day.

And let me tell you, it’s not the best way to start off.

On the flip side, happy individuals have different habits, ones that inspire positivity and joy.

But for now, let’s focus on those less-than-cheerful ways to kickstart the day.

Stay tuned to discover nine things unhappy people do at the start of each day

1) They hit the snooze button

We’ve all been there, the alarm blares, and the first instinct is to reach out and hit that snooze button.

But did you know this habit is a common trait among unhappy people?

The snooze button can seem like a friend, offering a few more minutes of slumber. But in reality, it’s a foe.

It starts your day off on a note of procrastination and delay.

Happy individuals, on the other hand, tend to get up when their alarm goes off.

They understand the value of time and the importance of starting the day with purpose.

2) They skip breakfast

I’ll admit, I was guilty of this for the longest time. Mornings were always a mad dash for me, and breakfast often got the short end of the stick.

I’d grab a coffee and call it a meal. But let me tell you, this is not the way to start your day.

Skipping breakfast became an automatic part of my morning routine. And you know what else became routine?

Feeling drained and cranky by mid-morning. It took me a while to make the connection, but once I did, I made a change.

Now, I make sure to have something nutritious each morning, even if it’s just a quick smoothie or a piece of fruit.

And believe me, it’s made a world of difference to my mood and energy levels throughout the day.

3) They don’t make their beds

Interestingly, a survey by the National Sleep Foundation found that people who make their beds in the morning are 19% more likely to report getting a good night’s sleep.

It seems like such a small, insignificant task, but it can set the tone for the rest of your day.

Making your bed can provide a sense of accomplishment first thing in the morning, paving the way for more productive tasks throughout the day..

4) They start their day with negativity

Negativity can be like a dark cloud, following you around and dampening your mood wherever you go. 

This could be anything from reading distressing news first thing in the morning to engaging in negative self-talk.

The problem with this is that it sets a pessimistic tone for the rest of the day.

Starting your day with positivity, on the other hand, can help put you in a good mood and set you up for success. 

5) They rush through their mornings

Mornings can be chaotic, especially if you’re trying to get yourself and others ready for the day. 

Scrambling to get everything done in a limited timeframe can leave you feeling frazzled and out of sorts.

It’s not the ideal way to kickstart your day.

Take a moment to breathe, slow down, and take your time.

A calm and collected start can lead to a more balanced, productive day.

6) They don’t take a moment for gratitude

The power of gratitude cannot be overstated.

By appreciating the good in our lives, we welcome a sense of happiness and contentment. 

They may wake up focusing on the challenges of the day ahead, or dwell on past regrets, bypassing the opportunity to appreciate the here and now.

Taking a moment each morning to acknowledge what you’re grateful for can make a significant difference to your overall outlook.

7) They ignore their physical health

There was a time when I didn’t pay much attention to my physical health in the mornings.

I’d wake up, go about my day, and completely overlook the importance of doing something good for my body.

Ignoring physical health is something unhappy people often do.

They might skip morning exercise, neglect hydration, or ignore signs of fatigue.

But here’s what I’ve learned: taking care of your physical health first thing in the morning can significantly impact how you feel for the rest of the day.

8) They check their emails and social media immediately

In our digital age, it’s all too easy to reach for our phones first thing in the morning. 

Checking emails or scrolling through social media as soon as you wake up can add instant stress to your day.

It can also lead to feelings of comparison and inadequacy, especially on platforms where people tend to showcase only the best aspects of their lives.

Consider waiting until you’re fully awake and have had some time for yourself before diving into the digital world. 

9) They don’t set intentions for the day

Setting intentions can be a powerful way to shape your day.

It’s about deciding what kind of day you want to have, and then making choices that align with that vision. 

Setting an intention doesn’t have to be complicated.

It can be as simple as deciding to approach your day with positivity, or to accomplish a specific task. 

Final words: A thought to ponder

Behind every action, there is often an underlying reason, a cause that triggers the effect.

For unhappy people and their morning habits, the reasons can be varied and complex.

The good news? Habits can be changed. It takes time and conscious effort, but it’s possible.

You have the power to create your own morning routine, one that uplifts you instead of dragging you down.

Take this as an opportunity for self-reflection and growth.

After all, every new day presents a fresh chance to create happiness in our lives.