You know what makes highly successful people less stressed, happier and more productive? They know that their personal priorities are worth more than other people’s priorities. Upon waking up, these significantly successful professionals don’t immediately check their email – they make it a point to claim the early hours of the day as their “me” time.
After all, these extraordinary people believe that if their priority needs to be done, then it has to be done first.
What do highly successful entrepreneurs and executives do upon waking up in the morning? Here are ten of them:
1. Wake up really early
Surely you know that time is an invaluable asset. Highly successful people take it up a notch by waking up at 5:30 am, 4:30 am and even 4:00 am. Not only will they have more control in their early hours, they’ll also have more opportunities to do things that matter to them.
Start with waking up 15 minutes earlier than your usual time. Then, gradually adjust.
2. Burn your calories
We don’t mean just the intense exercise regimen – you can simply do yoga, like Christies CEO Steve Murphy does. Exercise will not just make you think clearer, be healthier and scientifically happier, it allows you to combat stress as well.
Make time for exercise. An hour-long routine seems too daunting, so try running, dancing or even walking around the neighborhood for at least ten minutes.
3. Do an “Hour of Power”
Motivation doesn’t last forever, so you need to replenish yours regularly. Highly successful people know this, so they dedicate ample time to increase their supply. You’re more likely to continue accomplishing a task once you’re emotionally invested in it, right?
Spend thirty minutes listening to inspirational anecdotes and empowering quotes.
4. Jot down on your gratitude journal
Happiness is about wanting the things that you already have. By enumerating the blessings they’re grateful for, highly successful people become more open to optimism and inspiration and improve their outlook in life.
Everyday, write down at least one thing that you’re thankful for. Learn to count the small wins.
5. Ask yourself one important question
“If today was the last day of your life, would you still want to do what you’re about to do today?”
This hard-hitting question gets you right where it wants you. If you find yourself saying “no” several times in a week, then go out there and change something. You never know when you’ll have the opportunity to do it the next time.
6. Eat that frog first
In the morning, the willpower of highly successful people is fresh and ready to go. So, this is the best time to take advantage of it – do your hardest task, your “frog” first. This way, you’re more likely to get it done and you’re more likely to finish it without other people barging in on you.
Choose your “frog” of the day – only one – and stick to completing it before you even get to eat breakfast.
7. Connect with your partner
Use your morning hours to reconnect with your partner. Talk about your plans, your finances and even your beloved hobbies as a way to always be present in their lives. In the morning, highly successful people know that you’ll have more energy and more focus so making this a ritual is paramount. You can even set up one day of the week as your “breakfast date”. Go to the nearest cafe for breakfast or run around the neighborhood with your partner. It may do wonders for your relationship.
8. Plan and strategize
If you don’t take a few minutes of your time to map out the direction of your day, how will you know if you’re headed towards the right direction? Take at least 10 minutes of your day to visualize your life goals, review your tasks for the day and allot schedules for breaks. It’ll help your day be more manageable and less stressful.
9. Meditate and clear your mind
Keep calm and let your inner peace guide you: spend a few minutes to say a prayer or to meditate to keep you relaxed. Remember, 90% of illnesses are stress-related, so forget the rush, don’t dash and enjoy a few “hush” moments with yourself. Focus on your breathing. You may even recite an empowering mantra during your routine.
10. Cuddle and bond with your kids
If you have children, this is for you. Don’t be that parent who says, “Oh, my son/daughter grew so fast! I barely had time to enjoy with her/him.”
In the morning, when there is less clutter in your mind and less stress in your system, make it a point to help them get dressed, cook a hearty breakfast (or bake a batch of cookies) and even talk to them about their dreams. After all, you’re working so that your family will have a better time. Don’t let work get in the way of family – make time for your priorities.