If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably wondered what sets the ultra-successful apart from the rest of us. It’s not just about intelligence or talent, it’s about the habits they cultivate.

Specifically, their evening habits.

Night time isn’t just for rest, it’s a time to prepare for the next day and gain a mental edge. A time to out-think, out-plan and out-perform 98% of the population.

To help you get on board, I’ve compiled a list of 7 evening habits that can give you this advantage.

This isn’t about being manipulative or cunning. It’s about making smart choices and leveraging your evenings in the best possible way.

So stick around, because these habits might just be your ticket to a more successful tomorrow.

1) Unwind and reflect

Even the most successful people know that you can’t be “on” all the time.

Evenings are the perfect time to hit the brakes and unwind, but not in front of the TV. I’m talking about a more mindful kind of relaxation.

This could mean spending some quiet time reflecting on your day, practicing gratitude for the good things that happened, or even jotting down a few thoughts in a journal.

You see, reflection is more than just a feel-good activity. It actually gives you a mental edge by helping you process your experiences, learn from them, and make better decisions moving forward.

And here’s another interesting thing. Studies have shown that this type of reflective practice can actually boost your problem-solving abilities and enhance creativity.

Embrace this habit and watch as it transforms not only your evenings but also your approach to life and success.

2) Plan the next day

I can’t stress enough the value of this habit. It’s something I’ve incorporated into my own routine and it’s been a game changer.

Every evening, I take about 10 to 15 minutes to plan out my next day. I look at my to-do list, prioritize tasks, and set clear goals for what I want to achieve.

Doing this not only helps me hit the ground running the next morning, but it also puts my mind at ease. Knowing that I have a plan eases any stress or worry I might have about the upcoming day.

But here’s the key – this isn’t about cramming as much as possible into your schedule. It’s about making smart choices that align with your long-term goals and values.

For instance, if one of my top goals is to write a book, then I make sure to allocate time for writing in my plan. If I want to improve my physical fitness, I schedule time for a workout.

And here’s how this gives you a mental edge: it ensures that you’re always moving forward, always making progress towards your goals. You’re not just reacting to what life throws at you – you’re proactively shaping your own future.

3) Read a book

Even in our digital age, nothing beats the power of a good book.

Reading not only enriches your mind but also improves your cognitive abilities.

Whether it’s a novel, a self-help book, or an industry-specific text, reading broadens your horizons while also boosting your vocabulary, comprehension skills and critical thinking abilities.

What’s more, our brain treats reading much like actual experiences. So when you read a book, you’re essentially living through thousands of different lives, experiencing situations you might never encounter otherwise.

This unique ability to ‘experience’ different scenarios can significantly enhance your empathy, decision-making skills and emotional intelligence.

It’s like a mental workout that keeps your brain sharp and agile. Plus, it’s a fantastic stress reliever; there’s nothing quite like getting lost in a good book after a long day.

4) Digital detox

In our hyper-connected world, it’s easy to get lost in the endless cycle of emails, notifications, and updates.

But here’s the thing. Our brains weren’t designed to be “plugged in” 24/7. In fact, too much screen time, especially before bed, can interfere with our sleep quality and overall mental health.

That’s why it’s essential to have a digital detox each evening.

Switch off your devices at least an hour before bed. This allows your brain to wind down and prepare for a restful night’s sleep.

Instead of scrolling through social media or catching up on emails, use this time to engage in more relaxing activities. You could read a book (as we discussed earlier), meditate, or simply enjoy some quiet time.

This small change can make a big difference in your mental clarity and focus, helping you stay ahead of the curve. So give your brain the break it deserves and embrace the digital detox.

5) Practice mindfulness

Mindfulness is something I’ve struggled with in the past. With a busy schedule and a mind that’s always on the go, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of thoughts and worries.

But then I discovered the power of mindfulness.

This involves focusing on the present moment, acknowledging and accepting your feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations. It’s about being fully engaged in whatever you’re doing, not dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.

For me, this looks like spending a few minutes each night in quiet contemplation. Sometimes, it’s just focusing on my breath. Other times, it’s savoring the taste of my evening tea or simply listening to the night sounds outside my window.

The result? A calmer mind and a heightened sense of awareness. It’s like hitting a reset button on my brain, flushing out all the stress of the day.

This habit not only improves mental well-being but also sharpens focus and enhances creativity. It’s a simple practice that packs a powerful punch. So give mindfulness a shot and see how it transforms your evenings.

6) Get organized

Clutter in your environment often equates to clutter in your mind. A disorganized space can lead to feelings of overwhelm, stress, and anxiety.

That’s why one of the best things you can do for your mental edge is to get organized. Spend a few minutes each evening tidying up your space.

This doesn’t have to be a major clean-up operation. It could be as simple as clearing your workspace, doing the dishes, or preparing your clothes for the next day.

Doing so not only creates a more pleasant environment, but it also helps clear your mind. It sends a signal to your brain that the day’s work is done and it’s time to relax.

Moreover, waking up to a clean and organized space sets a positive tone for the next day. It eliminates unnecessary decision-making and allows you to start your day on a high note.

7) Prioritize sleep

There’s no shortcut around it. Quality sleep is the cornerstone of mental performance.

It’s during sleep that our brain processes the day’s events, consolidates memories, and rejuvenates itself. Skimping on sleep can lead to decreased focus, impaired memory, and reduced cognitive function.

So make it a non-negotiable to get 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. This means creating a sleep-friendly environment, sticking to a consistent sleep schedule, and adopting a relaxing pre-sleep routine.

Remember, it’s not just about the quantity of sleep but also the quality. So avoid late-night meals, caffeine, alcohol, and electronic devices close to bedtime as these can disrupt your sleep cycle.

Prioritizing sleep might seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised at how many people neglect this crucial habit.

A final thought

The power of our evening habits often goes unnoticed. We might even dismiss them as unimportant or trivial.

Yet, it’s these very habits that have the potential to shape our mental prowess, carving out a distinct edge in our day-to-day performance.

Science tells us that the human brain is an adaptable organ, capable of learning and evolving throughout our lives. And it’s these small, daily practices that play a fundamental role in this cognitive growth.

Whether it’s reading a good book, practicing mindfulness, or getting enough sleep, each habit sets the stage for a more focused and productive tomorrow.

As you go about your evening routine tonight, remember this: the power to shape your mind, to gain that mental edge over 98% of the population, lies within your grasp.

It’s not about massive overhauls or radical changes. It’s about making small, consistent choices every night. Choices that enrich your mind, nourish your soul, and prepare you for the challenges of tomorrow.

In essence, it’s about making your evenings count.