Most popular music artists, across genres and generations, have performed songs on the joy of a new day and the opportunities it throws at us, opportunities to make a fresh start, and leave yesterday behind.

It is, indeed, one of the most inspirational themes we can and must utilize in our lives. And we don't have to wait a year for a new year, or a birthday or some other significant anniversary - we have the opportunity to inspire and motivate ourselves every 24 hours.

Why all the importance to the start of our day, you may ask. Just look back into your recent past and you will notice that the manner in which you started your day ultimately decided your attitude for the entire day. If your day starts badly, your entire attitude tends to be negative.

So how much of how our day starts is in our hands?

Well a lot. If we feel our days aren't starting off on a bright, positive note, we have all the power and tools necessary to change it. How many times have you proactively tried to change your approach to starting the day?

Try and you will realize that if you change your approach and attitude, your entire day will witness a significant difference. Here are some tips to help you make that change.

1. Get started early.

Mornings are inherently invigorating. It is almost as if it were the grand design of nature. Mornings come with just the right atmosphere to kick start the new day. Everything in nature comes alive and our immediate surroundings are abuzz with activity. Utilize this natural phenomenon to your benefit.

Inspire yourself to wake up early in the morning. Take in the freshness in the air and in nature. Early rising is a very good habit and also has proven long lasting benefits not just for the way the rest of your day pans out, but also for your general mental and physical well being.

2. Leave yesterday behind.

While we can't practically start every day with a blank slate, it is advisable to forget the past day with the morning of a new one. Don't spend your morning mulling over things that have happened the day before. Don't crib or be depressed. Start your day looking forward to the opportunities it brings and not behind at the disappointments that preceded it.

3. Get physical.

Mornings are active - our environment is awake and active. Join in. Get active yourself. Go out for a walk or a jog; try some exercise, practice yoga. Shake your mind and body out of its slumber. Dance if you like that better, anything that helps your mind and body prime up to take the new day on.

4. Eat like a King.

Breakfast is the single most important meal of the day. Numerous studies have repeatedly proven the importance of a good, nourishing breakfast and yet it seems to be the one meal we most compromise on.

Don't rush out the door without breakfast. Your body needs the energy. A healthy breakfast will help you gain energy for the rest of the morning and even for the afternoon.

5. Say a little prayer.

Among all the activity that your morning should consist of, take the time out to offer your gratitude for everything that's good in your life, your success, your family, and the good times.

Thank the power that is for the benedictions it has bestowed upon you. Take a few minutes off to fully appreciate how good things are and how lucky you are.

In the grand scheme of things, it is easy to miss the opportunity that is a new day. Make the most of every day by grabbing it with both hands and starting it off on a right, bright, positive note.