Success doesn’t always come early in life. In fact, many people find their true calling and achieve great success later on. It’s not magic but a result of certain daily habits they adopt.

These habits aren’t rocket science; they’re simple actions that can turn your life around if done consistently.

In this article, I’ll share 9 daily habits that late bloomers in success usually adopt.

These are habits that can help you pave your way to success, no matter your age. 

Let’s dive in. 

1) Early risers

There’s a reason why the saying “The early bird catches the worm” is popular.

Many people who achieve success later in life understand the importance of waking up early. It’s not about torturing yourself with an alarm clock, but rather about having that quiet, uninterrupted time in the morning to focus on your goals and set your day up for success.

Successful late bloomers often use this time to meditate, exercise, read or plan their day. This habit of rising early gives them a jumpstart on their day, allowing them to be proactive rather than reactive.

It might take some time to adjust to this habit, but once you do, you’ll likely find the benefits make it well worth the effort. And remember, it’s not about getting up at a specific time, but about finding what works best for you.

But as with all habits, consistency is key. So set a wake-up time that you can stick with and start reaping the benefits of being an early riser.

2) Time management

I’ve personally found that those who find success later in life often have impeccable time management skills.

Take me, for instance. I used to feel like there weren’t enough hours in the day to get everything done, always rushing from one task to the next. But then I started implementing time management techniques into my daily routine.

I began by identifying my most productive hours during the day, and scheduled my most important tasks during this period. I also started using a digital calendar to block out time for different activities. This way, I was able to ensure that not only work, but also personal time and relaxation were part of my schedule.

The difference was astonishing. Not only did I start getting more done, but I also felt less stressed and more satisfied with my work.

The trick is to stay disciplined and follow your schedule as closely as possible. It’s about making every minute count, but also about understanding that it’s okay to take breaks and relax. After all, we’re human, not machines!

3) Lifelong learning

This one is interesting. Did you know that Warren Buffet, one of the most successful investors in the world, spends about 80% of his day reading?

People who find success later in life understand the importance of continuous learning. They’re always looking to expand their knowledge and improve their skills, whether it be through books, podcasts, online courses, or even conversations with others.

They have an insatiable curiosity and a thirst for knowledge. They’re not afraid to admit they don’t know everything and are always open to new ideas and perspectives.

The world is constantly changing, and to stay ahead, you need to keep learning. So make it a habit to learn something new every day. It doesn’t have to be related to your field or career; just keep your mind active and engaged.

Remember, knowledge is power!

4) Regular exercise

A healthy mind resides in a healthy body, and successful people understand this connection very well.

Those who gain success later in life often incorporate regular exercise into their routine. It’s not just about maintaining physical health, but also about mental well-being.

Exercise helps to clear the mind, reduce stress, and boost energy levels. It can be as simple as a brisk walk, a yoga session, or a full-fledged workout at the gym.

The key is regularity. It’s not about how intense your workout is, but how consistently you do it. Even a few minutes of physical activity can make a significant difference.

Find an activity you enjoy, and make it a part of your daily routine. Your body and mind will thank you for it.

5) Mindful eating

We often overlook the impact of our diet on our overall well-being and success. But, people who achieve success later in life are usually mindful of what they eat.

They understand that food is fuel for the body and mind. Eating a balanced diet not only ensures physical health but also aids mental clarity.

These late bloomers are not usually found indulging in junk food frequently. They prefer wholesome meals that provide them with the energy they need to perform their best.

This doesn’t mean they never enjoy a slice of pizza or a piece of cake. It’s about balance and moderation, not deprivation.

Pay attention to what you’re putting in your body. A healthy diet can do wonders for your energy levels, concentration, and overall productivity.

6) Gratitude practice

Success isn’t just about wealth or achievements, it’s about contentment and happiness. And a common habit among those who find success later in life is the practice of gratitude.

In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to overlook the blessings we have. But taking a moment each day to acknowledge what we’re thankful for can make a world of difference.

This simple act of appreciation can shift our focus from what’s going wrong to what’s going right. It can help us stay motivated during tough times and keep our spirits high.

I’ve seen people transform their lives by adopting this habit. It’s incredibly moving to see how a simple ‘thank you’ can bring so much positivity and happiness.

Before you start your day or before you go to bed, take a moment to count your blessings. It might surprise you how much there is to be thankful for.

7) Embracing failure

There was a time when I feared failure, like it was some sort of monster waiting to devour me. But as I ventured on the path of success, I realized that failure is not the end but a stepping stone on the journey.

People who find success later in life often adopt this mindset. They understand that failure is part of the process and that each setback provides valuable lessons that can propel them forward.

Instead of allowing failure to discourage them, they use it as fuel to keep going and to keep improving. They’re not afraid to take risks and make mistakes because they know that’s how growth happens.

It’s a challenging habit to adopt, especially in a world that often equates failing with being a failure. But once you realize that failure is just a momentary setback, not a life sentence, it becomes less scary and more of an opportunity for growth.

8) Active listening

In a world where everyone wants to be heard, those who listen stand out.

People who find success later in life often practice active listening. They understand that listening, truly listening, is a powerful tool for building relationships and gaining insight.

Active listening involves not just hearing the words, but also paying attention to the emotions and thoughts behind them. It’s about understanding the other person’s perspective, even if you don’t agree with it.

By being an active listener, you show respect and empathy towards others. This can help you build strong relationships, both personally and professionally.

So next time someone is talking to you, try to really listen. Not just to respond, but to understand. It might just open your eyes to a whole new perspective.

9) Persistence

Above all, people who achieve success later in life have an unwavering sense of persistence. They understand that success is not an overnight phenomenon but a result of consistent effort and determination.

Even when faced with obstacles and setbacks, they keep going. They don’t let failures deter them or critics demotivate them. They persevere because they believe in their dreams and themselves.

And in the end, it’s this relentless persistence that transforms their dreams into reality. So, no matter where you are on your journey, remember to keep going. Your persistence will eventually pay off.

Final thoughts: It’s a journey

Success, especially later in life, is less about the destination and more about the journey.

It’s about the small, daily habits that we choose to adopt and consistently follow. It’s waking up early, managing our time, constantly learning, exercising regularly, eating mindfully, practicing gratitude, embracing failure, listening actively, and persisting.

Late bloomers like Julia Child, Stan Lee, and Vera Wang have shown us that it’s never too late to achieve success. But it’s important to remember that their success was not a sudden phenomenon. It was a result of their dedication, persistence and daily habits.

As Aristotle once said, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit.”

So as you reflect on these 9 daily habits of people who find success later in life, remember that it’s not about overhauling your life overnight. It’s about making small changes consistently and enjoying the journey along the way.

After all, success is a journey, not a destination.