9 things high-achievers always do before 8 am

There’s something uniquely impressive about high-achievers. They seem to get more done before 8 am than most of us do in a whole day.

Why is that?

It all boils down to a carefully crafted morning routine. High-achievers know that starting the day right sets the tone for everything that follows.

In this article, I will share the 9 things high-achievers always do before 8 am. These are simple, yet powerful habits that can help you achieve more and make the most of your day.

Let’s dive in.

1) They wake up early

It’s no secret that high-achievers are often part of the ‘5 am club.’

Getting up early gives these people a head start on the day. It’s like gaining a few extra hours to be productive while the rest of the world is still asleep.

This doesn’t mean you have to start your day at 4 am. The key is to find a wake-up time that works for you and stick to it.

By waking up early, high-achievers get to enjoy uninterrupted time to work on their goals, plan their day, or just enjoy some quiet reflection.

It creates a sense of control over their day, which boosts their confidence and sets a positive tone for everything that follows.

2) They exercise

High-achievers understand the importance of physical health and its connection to mental and emotional well-being. That’s why exercise is a non-negotiable part of their morning routine.

Take me, for example. I used to struggle with feeling sluggish and unproductive in the mornings. But then I started incorporating a quick 20-minute workout into my morning routine.

Now, it’s one of my favorite parts of the day. Not only does it get my blood pumping and wakes me up, but it also makes me feel accomplished before my day has even really started.

Whether it’s a brisk jog, a yoga session, or some weight-lifting, high-achievers know that exercise gives them a burst of energy and positivity that carries throughout the day.

3) They eat a healthy breakfast

High-achievers understand the importance of fueling their bodies with the right nutrients to kickstart their day. This often means eating a balanced and nutritious breakfast.

It’s not just about filling the stomach, it’s about feeding the brain too. Did you know that the brain uses up to 20% of the body’s energy resources? That’s more than any other organ in the body.

With this in mind, high-achievers often opt for breakfast options that are rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats. These nutrients provide sustained energy, keep you feeling full longer, and help maintain focus and concentration.

If you’re used to skipping breakfast or grabbing a sugary pastry on the go, you might want to rethink your morning meal. After all, they do say it’s the most important meal of the day for a reason.

4) They plan their day

One thing you’ll notice about high-achievers is that they don’t leave their day to chance. They have a clear plan of what needs to be done and when.

Planning their day allows them to prioritize their tasks, manage their time effectively, and stay focused on their goals. It’s like having a roadmap for the day.

They often use tools like planners, digital calendars, or productivity apps to organize their tasks. But it’s not just about work. They also factor in time for breaks, self-care, and other non-work activities.

By planning their day, high-achievers ensure they are not just busy, but productive. So if you want to achieve more, it might be time to start planning your day.

5) They practice mindfulness

Mindfulness might seem like a buzzword these days, but high-achievers have long recognized its value. Taking a few moments each morning to be present and focused can have a profound impact on the rest of the day.

This could mean meditating, journaling, practicing gratitude, or simply enjoying a quiet cup of coffee. The aim is to start the day with a clear and calm mind.

Practicing mindfulness helps high-achievers to reduce stress, increase focus, and approach their day with a positive mindset. It’s like hitting a reset button each morning.

If you’re constantly rushing in the mornings, consider incorporating some mindfulness into your routine. It could be the key to a more productive and less stressful day.

6) They connect with loved ones

Among the hustle and bustle of achieving goals, high-achievers never lose sight of what truly matters – their loved ones.

Creating time to connect with their family or close friends is a crucial part of their morning routine. This could be as simple as sharing breakfast, a quick chat, or even a morning hug.

These moments of connection not only foster stronger relationships but also serve as a loving reminder of why they strive for success in the first place.

Amidst your morning rush, don’t forget to pause and cherish the people who add warmth to your life. After all, success is sweeter when shared with those we love.

7) They set intentions

High-achievers don’t just plan their day; they also set intentions. This is about defining a specific state of mind or attitude they want to embody throughout the day.

I’ll be honest, this was something I struggled with initially. I was so focused on ticking off my to-do list that I often lost sight of how I wanted to feel or the kind of energy I wanted to bring into my day.

But once I started setting daily intentions, everything changed. It became less about what I needed to do and more about who I wanted to be.

Whether it’s being more patient, staying focused, or embracing challenges with positivity, setting an intention helps high-achievers align their actions with their values and aspirations.

Before you dive into your daily tasks, take a moment to reflect on your intentions for the day. It might just make all the difference.

8) They educate themselves

High-achievers are lifelong learners. They understand that to stay ahead, they must continually educate themselves.

This could mean reading a book, listening to a podcast, or even watching a thought-provoking video. The goal is to gain new knowledge or insights that can help them grow personally and professionally.

By making learning a part of their morning routine, high-achievers ensure they are constantly evolving and staying open to new ideas and perspectives.

If you want to join the ranks of high-achievers, consider adding some form of learning to your morning routine. Remember, knowledge is power.

9) They practice self-care

Above everything else, high-achievers understand the importance of self-care. They know that they can’t pour from an empty cup and that taking care of themselves is not a luxury, but a necessity.

Self-care could take many forms – a relaxing bath, a quiet walk, some light stretching, or even just a few moments of silence. The key is to do something that rejuvenates you and makes you feel good.

High-achievers know that to give their best to the world, they must first give their best to themselves. So, make self-care a non-negotiable part of your morning routine. After all, you’re worth it.

Final thoughts: The power of routine

Each habit, from waking up early to practicing self-care, is a conscious choice towards personal and professional growth. These choices might seem small in isolation, but together, they form a powerful routine that paves the way for extraordinary achievements.

Remember, it’s not about doing more; it’s about doing what matters most. It’s about prioritizing, focusing, and aligning your actions with your aspirations.

So as you reflect on these habits of high-achievers, consider which ones resonate with you. Which ones align with your goals? Which ones could you incorporate into your morning routine?

After all, the power to achieve greatness lies within you. And it all starts with how you choose to begin your day.