Do you ever wonder how successful people get so much done before lunch? It’s not just about what they do, it’s also about what they don’t do.

Being successful is as much about avoiding mistakes as it is about embracing good habits. And the morning, being the launching pad for the day, can make or break your productivity.

In this piece, we’ll look at 9 things successful people never do in the morning. Consider it your guide to starting the day off right.

1) They never hit the snooze button

Successful people understand the value of time. They know that each minute in the morning is precious and can set the tone for the rest of their day.

Hitting the snooze button? That’s not part of their routine.

Instead, they get up as soon as their alarm rings, ready to embrace the day. They understand that those few extra minutes in bed won’t make them feel more rested. In fact, it can make them feel groggier.

But it’s not just about getting up early. It’s about what they do with that time. Whether it’s working out, meditating, or planning their day, successful people use their mornings to set themselves up for success.

2) They never skip breakfast

I can’t stress enough the importance of fueling your body first thing in the morning.

I remember a time when I used to rush out the door without eating anything, thinking I was saving time. But by mid-morning, my energy would plummet, and my focus would wane. It was clear I wasn’t operating at my best.

Then I made a change. I started waking up a little earlier to ensure I had time to eat a balanced breakfast. It made a world of difference.

Fruit, yogurt, whole grains – these became my staples. And I noticed an instant change. My concentration improved, my energy levels remained steady, and overall, I felt more prepared to tackle whatever the day threw at me.

Successful people understand that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It kickstarts your metabolism and provides the fuel you need to be productive and focused.

3) They never check their emails immediately

In a world where we’re constantly connected, it can be tempting to reach for your phone and start scrolling through your inbox as soon as you wake up. However, this isn’t a habit you’ll find among successful people.

Checking emails first thing can throw off your entire morning routine. It can introduce stress and distract you from starting your day on a positive note.

Did you know that a study by the University of British Columbia found that people who checked their email only three times a day felt significantly less stressed than their counterparts who had no limit?

Successful people are adept at setting boundaries and protecting their time, especially in the morning. Instead of diving into the digital world, they prioritize more meaningful activities that contribute to their well-being and productivity.

4) They never rush

We’ve all had those mornings where we’re scrambling around, racing against the clock, barely having a moment to catch our breath. However, this kind of chaos is rarely seen in the mornings of successful people.

Running late and rushing around doesn’t just start your day off on a stressful note, it can also affect how the rest of your day unfolds. You might forget important tasks or make mistakes due to haste.

Successful people value their peace of mind. They create morning routines that allow them to start their day calmly and in control. This could mean getting up a little earlier or preparing the night before to avoid last-minute rushing.

5) They never ignore their physical health

Whether it’s going for a run, hitting the gym or practicing yoga, high achievers make it a point to get their blood pumping bright and early. This doesn’t just wake them up but also helps them clear their mind and prepare for the day ahead.

Physical activity in the morning also releases endorphins, which are known as feel-good hormones. This can lead to improved mood and energy levels throughout the day.

Therefore, consider incorporating some form of exercise into your morning routine. Your body – and your productivity – will thank you for it.

6) They never forget to express gratitude

Taking a few moments each morning to reflect on what you’re thankful for can set a positive tone for the rest of your day. It helps you focus on what’s good in your life, rather than getting caught up in the challenges and stresses that inevitably arise.

I’ve found that expressing gratitude doesn’t just make me happier, it also helps me stay grounded and focused on what truly matters. It’s a gentle reminder that despite any setbacks or difficulties, there’s always something to be grateful for.

I encourage you to do the same. It could be jotting down a few things you’re thankful for, or simply taking a moment to silently acknowledge them. You’d be surprised at the impact it can have on your day.

7) They never neglect their mental health

We often hear about the importance of physical health, but mental health is just as crucial. Successful people understand this and prioritize their mental well-being each morning.

For me, this means meditation. It wasn’t always easy to find the time or the focus, but once I made it a consistent part of my morning routine, I saw a noticeable difference. My stress levels decreased, my focus improved, and I felt more balanced overall.

Whether it’s through meditation, journaling, or simply sitting quietly with a cup of coffee, taking time to care for your mental health in the morning can set a positive tone for the rest of your day.

8) They never start without a plan

Starting your day without a clear plan is like setting off on a journey without a map. Successful people know this and ensure they have a roadmap for the day before they even get started.

Having a plan helps to prioritize tasks, manage time effectively and maintain focus throughout the day. It reduces the feeling of being overwhelmed and increases productivity.

This doesn’t mean every minute has to be scheduled. Rather, it’s about having a clear understanding of what needs to be achieved and how to go about it.

9) They never forget to set a positive intention

The power of a positive intention is not to be underestimated. Successful people know that the energy they bring into their day can greatly impact how it unfolds.

Setting a positive intention each morning can help guide your actions, influence your mindset, and shape your experiences throughout the day. It’s about consciously choosing the attitude you want to embody and the energy you want to attract.

Start your day with a clear, positive intention. It could be as simple as deciding to be present, choosing kindness, or committing to staying open-minded. Whatever it is, let it guide you and see the difference it makes in your day.

Final thoughts: It’s all about intentionality

When it comes to the morning routines of successful people, one common thread seems to emerge – intentionality.

Whether it’s getting up early, exercising, setting positive intentions, or avoiding certain activities like checking emails immediately, these habits are not random. They’re carefully curated practices that contribute to their overall success and well-being.

The beauty of it is that we all have the power to shape our mornings in a way that serves us best. And while the specifics may vary for each individual, the underlying principle remains the same – start your day with intentionality.