January Habit – 5 Minute Golden Mornings

Challenge: 5 minutes upon waking spent saying affirmations, creating a gratitude list, meditating, or free writing.

We’re two weeks into the year and I’ve been right on top of my January habit. I’ve been getting up at 5:30 or 6:00am and once I get downstairs I grab my phone and head to the couch for 5 minutes of guided meditation. While I don’t get up that early on the weekends, I’m finding time to sneak away into a quiet room by myself to get the meditation in later in the day.

While the habit is there, I have to say that meditating is hard. I downloaded a few apps to help out and Amanda posted a link to several affirmations, which has really helped. My problem is, though, that I have a hard time clearing my mind! I’m finding it very difficult to be in the present moment. I’m constantly thinking about my to do list and reminding the kids of stuff and what do I need for and did I remember to.

I’m trying. Whenever an outside thought pops in, I’m making a conscience effort to think my affirmation a little “louder” and get back on track. I’m also super proud of myself for not falling asleep. No, I’m not kidding. That was a real fear of mine when I started this, LOL!

This next week will be a little more difficult to find the quiet time to do it. We leave for vacation on Thursday which means all of us together, all of the time, for the next week. I might just have to do it right before my workout in the gym.

I’m also toying with the idea of not laying down while I meditate. I know that seems like an inconsequential thing, but I’m wondering if not being completely comfortable will help me focus on the present moment, if that makes sense.

So, I’m two weeks in and going strong. I’ve earned myself two rewards and, barring any vacation mayhem, I should have no problem getting my last two weekly rewards for the month of January!

Do you meditate? Do you have a hard time staying focused? What’s your favorite source for affirmations?