Overall performance in academics and social outlets is affected by how high school students start their days. “When I wake up, I always tell myself positive things in order to have the best day possible. I notice if I do this, I tend to have a pretty enjoyable day,” says Brendan Fitz, an eleventh grader at Air Academy High School. Waking up in the morning and thinking positive thoughts makes his time at school the best it can possibly be.  In addition, Jordan Van Arsdale, also and eleventh grader, says, “I am excited to see my best friend when I wake up. It is also one day closer to Friday.” This positive outlook on school and mornings allows her to be happy and cheerful throughout the day. “If I think negative thoughts to myself when I get ready for school, I notice I go to school in a bad mood and end up having kind of a rough day.” Therefore, students’ attitudes are important and are something that is entirely in their control.

Taylor Lapierre, a senior at Air Academy High School, says, “If you are confident, school is much easier because you tend to perform better in all outlets.” Taylor eats breakfast in the mornings and always eats exactly what she wants, no matter how crazy it might be, because “you can’t always make your day go how you want, so you should at least choose what you want to eat.” Johnathan Locke, a junior at Air Academy High School, says, “If I start off by having a bad day, I go find my friends, so they can help turn it around and if I don’t feel like being around them, I’ll listen to music.” Students are discovering that the way you start your mornings is extremely crucial.

No matter what starts your day correctly, don’t be afraid to try it. A common tip to starting your day in the most positive way possible is to not reach for the phone first thing. Doing this will cause your day to start being centered around others, rather than yourself. Mornings are supposed to be completely selfish and are often times spent dealing with others. In addition, visualizing a positive outcome will contribute to meeting your goals. Athletes use visualization in order to advance closer to the finish line or do better in a game. Stretching can also actually improve your mood throughout the day. “The act works to increase your flexibility, improves circulation and relieves tension” (Bratskeir, Kate). You can even take time to list three things you are grateful for, practice meditation, journal, or listen to your favorite song. These activities enhance your emotional state, make you think, and increase your energy levels. These tips are incredibly helpful to live the greatest life possible. “You have the power to wake up on the right side of the bed every single morning for the rest of your life” (Bratskeir, Kate).

Bratskeir, Kate. “The Simple Things You Should Be Doing Every Morning (But Aren’t).” The Huffington Post. TheHuffingtonPost.com, 07 Oct. 2013. Web. 11 Nov. 2013.