If you’re looking to up your game and become more successful next year, I’ve got some advice.

It’s all about how you start your day.

That’s right, your morning routine can actually set the tone for your entire day and even your overall success. It’s not about working longer hours, it’s about working smarter.

I’ve compiled a list of 9 things to start doing each morning if you’re serious about moving up in the world. These aren’t just good habits, they’re game changers.

Let’s get started. 

1) Rise and shine

Success starts with winning your mornings.

If you’re hitting the snooze button until the last possible minute, you’re setting yourself up for a day of rushing, stress, and little time for strategic thinking.

On the other hand, rising early gives you a head start. You get a quiet moment to yourself before the world wakes up and demands your attention.

Consider setting your alarm 30 minutes earlier than usual. Use this time for a quiet cup of coffee, meditation, or even some light exercise. This small change can set a positive tone for the rest of your day.

It’s not about depriving yourself of sleep – it’s about shifting your schedule to make the most of those precious morning hours. And most successful people are known to be early risers.

So tomorrow morning, resist that snooze button and start off your day proactively. You might be surprised at how much more you can achieve.

2) Set your intentions

I’ve found that one of the most powerful ways to start my day is by setting my intentions.

Every morning, before I even look at my phone or email, I take a few minutes to decide what I want to achieve that day. Not just in terms of tasks, but also how I want to feel and how I want to interact with others.

For example, I might set the intention to be patient and understanding in a meeting that I know will be challenging. Or to find joy in my work, even if the tasks are mundane.

This simple act of setting my intentions helps me stay focused on what truly matters, prevents me from getting lost in the hustle and bustle, and has hugely improved my effectiveness and satisfaction each day.

Try it for yourself. Take a few quiet moments each morning to set your intentions for the day. You might be surprised at the difference it can make.

3) Get moving

Starting your day with physical activity isn’t just good for your body, it’s also great for your brain. Exercise releases endorphins, which are chemicals in the brain that act as natural mood lifters.

Even just a short walk or a few stretches can get your blood flowing and help you feel more alert and ready to tackle the day.

According to Harvard Health, regular exercise can improve memory and cognitive function.

So not only are you doing something good for your body, but you’re also setting up your mind for success.

Incorporate a bit of movement into your morning routine and see how it changes your day for the better.

4) Fuel your body

You’ve probably heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. There’s a reason for that. After a night of fasting, your body needs nutrients to kick-start the day.

Starting your day with a balanced meal can help boost your energy levels, improve your concentration, and prevent overeating later in the day.

But I’m not talking about grabbing a doughnut or a sugary cereal. Think protein, whole grains, and fruits – foods that will release energy slowly and keep you feeling full longer.

Make time for breakfast. Your body – and your performance throughout the day – will thank you for it.

5) Practice gratitude

Starting your day with a positive mindset can make all the difference. And a simple yet powerful way to do this is by practicing gratitude.

Take a few moments each morning to reflect on the things you are grateful for. It could be as simple as a warm cup of coffee, your health, or the love of your family.

This habit can help you start the day with a positive attitude and remind you of the good things in your life, even when you’re faced with challenges.

Gratitude has been linked to increased happiness, better relationships, and even improved physical health.

Give it a try. You might be surprised at how this small change can have a big impact on your day and your overall success.

6) Connect with loved ones

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s easy to forget the importance of human connections.

Each morning, take a moment to connect with your loved ones. It could be as simple as a hug with your partner, a quick chat with your kids over breakfast, or even a short call to your parents.

This isn’t just about maintaining relationships. It’s about reminding ourselves of what truly matters in life. It’s about starting each day with love and warmth in our hearts.

Because at the end of the day, success isn’t just about achievements and accolades. It’s also about love, connection, and the joy we bring to others.

Make it a point to connect with your loved ones every morning. It will not only make your day better but also enrich your life in ways you can’t even imagine.

7) Embrace quiet time

For years, I struggled with the constant noise and demands of modern life. My days were filled with back-to-back meetings, endless emails, and constant distractions.

Then, I started carving out quiet time for myself each morning. No phone, no emails, just me and my thoughts.

This quiet time has become a sanctuary. It’s a time to reflect, to plan, and to simply be. It’s a place where I can reconnect with my goals and my purpose.

This might sound like a luxury you can’t afford. But trust me, even just a few minutes of quiet time can make a world of difference.

Try it. Start your day with some quiet time. You might be surprised at how it helps you find clarity, focus, and peace amidst the chaos of everyday life.

8) Learn something new

Knowledge is power. And the more you learn, the more equipped you are to navigate the world and achieve your goals.

So why not start each day with a bit of learning? It could be reading a chapter of a book, listening to a podcast, or even watching a TED talk.

This habit not only expands your knowledge but also stimulates your mind and gets those creative juices flowing.

Plus, continuous learning is a common trait among the most successful people. They understand that there’s always something new to learn, and they’re always looking for ways to grow and improve.

Start your day with some learning. It will not only make you smarter but also more prepared to tackle whatever the day throws at you.

9) Visualize your success

Success is not just about hard work and the right opportunities. It’s also about belief. Belief in your abilities, in your goals, and in your potential to achieve them.

Every morning, take a few moments to visualize your success. Imagine achieving your goals, reaching your milestones, and living the life you dream of.

This simple act of visualization can be incredibly powerful. It can boost your confidence, increase your motivation, and make your goals feel more attainable.

Final thought: It’s all about consistency

The secret to success isn’t just about what you do in the morning, but how consistently you do it.

Consistency is what turns routines into habits. And habits are what can propel us towards our goals even when motivation wanes.

Every one of the 9 things I’ve shared with you today has the potential to make a significant impact on your success. But the real transformative power lies in doing them consistently, day after day, week after week.

Remember, success isn’t an event. It’s a process. It’s the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.

So as you reflect on these ideas, think about how you can incorporate them into your everyday routine. And more importantly, consider how you can stick to them consistently.

Because if you want to become a more successful person next year, it starts with what you do every morning from today.