Success isn’t a stroke of luck. It’s a result of consistent habits, especially those early morning ones that set the tone for the rest of the day.

Successful people understand the value of the early hours. Before 8 am, they’ve usually done a few crucial things that give them a head start on the day.

In this article, let’s discover the 9 things successful people do before 8 am every day so you can take better control of your day and become a more successful version of yourself. 

Without further ado…let’s jump right in!

1) They wake up early

It’s no secret that successful people are often early risers. 

Turns out, early morning is when high achievers make the most wealth. 

Consider Tim Cook, the CEO of Apple, who rises every day between 4 a.m. and 5 a.m. Likewise, Ursula Burns, former CEO of Xerox, begins her day at 5:15am.  

These high-profile executives are not the only ones waking up before sunrise.

In his study, author Thomas C. Corley discovered that nearly half of the 177 self-made billionaires got up at least three hours before starting their work day. It’s sort of a “rich habit,” he said.

There’s something about the quiet of the early morning that brings clarity and focus. 

This isn’t to say they don’t value sleep. Quite the opposite. They just understand that setting an early alarm gives them extra hours to prepare for the day ahead.

If you’re looking to emulate the habits of successful people, consider setting your alarm a little earlier. You might be surprised at how much more you can accomplish before 8 am.

2) They exercise

I can’t stress enough the importance of morning exercise.

It was a game-changer for me. When I started incorporating a morning workout into my routine, I found myself feeling more energetic and focused throughout the day.

Whether it’s a quick run around the block, a session at the gym, or even some yoga in the living room, getting your body moving in the morning can work wonders for your productivity and mindset.

Successful people know this. They prioritize physical activity before heading to the office because it sets a positive tone for the rest of the day. So, lace up those running shoes or unroll that yoga mat, and see the difference it makes in your day.

3) They eat a nutritious breakfast

Starting the day with a healthy breakfast is a common habit among successful people. Why?

It’s because they understand that nourishing their bodies in the morning contributes to sustained energy and focus throughout the day.

Oprah Winfrey, for example, is a breakfast person. 

The famous talk show host said: “Our bodies are the same way, which is why I’m passionate about breakfast—especially when it involves passion fruit. And blueberries. And raspberries, strawberries, some sliced banana and maybe a sprig or two of fresh mint.

Also, did you know that your brain uses 20% of your daily caloric intake? That’s quite a bit, considering it only makes up about 2% of your body weight.

For this reason, skipping breakfast can lead to lower energy levels and reduced cognitive function. Successful people are keenly aware of this, which is why they make time for a nutritious morning meal. Whether it’s a green smoothie or a bowl of oatmeal, they ensure they’re fueling their bodies and brains for the day ahead.

4) They plan their day

Having a clear plan for the day can be the difference between chaos and control.

Successful people understand this. They take time each morning to map out their day, setting clear goals and priorities. This helps them stay focused and efficient, ensuring they make the most of their time.

Whether it’s a detailed to-do list or a simple outline of key tasks, planning your day in advance allows you to hit the ground running when the workday starts.

From now on, consider making daily planning a part of your morning routine and trust me, you’ll see your productivity soar.

5) They practice gratitude

Few things set the tone for the rest of the day like a positive mindset.

Successful people often practice gratitude in the morning. They take a few moments to reflect on what they’re thankful for, setting a positive tone for the day ahead.

What’s great about the simple act of acknowledging the good in their lives helps them maintain a positive outlook, even when faced with challenges.

So, how do you get into the habit of practicing gratitude in your life?

A good way to start is to jot down a few things you’re grateful for first thing in the morning. Things like the air in your lungs or the food on your table. It’s a small habit that can make a big difference in your overall perspective.

6) They connect with loved ones

Success often manifests in one’s professional accomplishments. Yet, beyond that, success is also about maintaining strong, meaningful relationships.

Successful people know the value of connecting with their loved ones in the morning. It could be a quick call to a parent, a heartwarming chat with a child, or a moment of connection with a partner.

These interactions serve as a reminder of what’s truly important, beyond the hustle and bustle of work. They provide a sense of purpose and grounding that fuels their drive and ambition.

Therefore, consider taking a few moments each morning to connect with those you love. It’s a beautiful way to start the day, filled with warmth and affection.

7) They engage in self-reflection

I’ve found that setting aside time for self-reflection in the morning can be incredibly beneficial.

It’s a time to check in with myself, to assess how I’m feeling and what I hope to achieve. This quiet contemplation helps me align my actions with my goals and values.

Successful people often incorporate this practice into their morning routine. Whether it’s journaling, meditating, or simply sitting quietly with a cup of coffee, these moments of introspection allow them to center themselves and approach the day with intention.

So, consider carving out some time each morning for self-reflection. It’s a powerful way to stay connected with yourself amidst the busyness of life.

8) They educate themselves

Knowledge is power, and successful people understand the value of continuous learning.

That’s why many of them dedicate time each morning to educate themselves. It could be reading a chapter of a book, catching up on industry news, or even listening to an informative podcast while getting ready for the day.

This habit ensures they’re always growing, always learning. It keeps them informed and ahead of the curve, ready to seize opportunities as they come.

Start your day with a dose of knowledge, and you’ll be setting yourself up for success.

9) They prioritize their most challenging task

Successful people understand the concept of “eating the frog,” a phrase popularized by Mark Twain. It means tackling the most challenging or important task first thing in the morning.

Why eat the frog in the morning and not afternoon?

This habit ensures that you’re dedicating your best efforts to what matters most when your energy and focus are at their peak, which is early morning. Plus, it provides a sense of accomplishment that carries you through the rest of the day.

The bottom line is: if you want to maximize your productivity, get into the habit of eating the frog everyday.

Food for thought: The early bird and success

The connection between early morning habits and success is more than just a cliché. There’s a strong correlation backed by science and observed in the routines of many successful people.

As you reflect on these habits, ask yourself: what changes could you make to your morning routine? How might your days look different if you adopted some of these practices? The answers might just bring you one step closer to your picture of success.