How do you start your day? As it turns out, the way you rise in the morning can have a big impact on your success and productivity during the day—even beyond the inherent health benefits of getting plenty of sleep. People like Ben Franklin and Tim Cook tend to share some of the same morning habits, and researchers think that their morning routine might just have something to do with their success. These are just a few AM traits successful people have in common.
They’re early risers.
If you’re sleeping in while hoping to one day make it to the top, the people at the top are likely already starting their day. Ben Franklin blocked out the time from 5 to 7 to, as he put it: “rise, wash and address powerful goodness! Contrive the day’s business, and take the resolution of the day; prosecute the present study,” and, he added, “breakfast”!
They prioritize exercise.
Successful people recognize that their health and well-being are a top priority when it comes to getting through their busy days. Tim Cook, Apple CEO, hits the gym about 5am while Square founder Jack Dorsey does a six-mile jog. Maybe they know that working out releases endorphins to help reduce stress while it maximizes energy.
They plan their day in advance.
Even Ben Franklin said: “contrive the day’s business”. One of the traits of many successful people is that they plan for the day ahead before heading out the door. They know both their strategies and their goals so they can achieve them. Reviewing and planning your day helps you clarify the day ahead and how you are going to handle it.
They eat a healthy breakfast.
They may do it on the run, but they realize that a healthy breakfast fuels their day. Whether you join Procter and Gamble CEO A.G. Lafley in some vegetable juice, half a bagel and some yogurt or plan a breakfast meeting, breakfast appears to be for winners. Add some complex carbohydrates to release energy throughout the day.
They prioritize carefully.
Successful people reflect, plan and strategize and then focus on the problem at hand. They tend to tackle the most difficult tasks in the morning. Scientists know that your willpower is at its highest in the morning, so that gives you the extra push to get a hard job done.
