Things we should do to maximize productivity before 8 am

 There is a striking difference between people who are just successful and those who are high-achievers. The difference lies in how they start their day. High achievers have a strategy to squeeze every drop of productivity out of their mornings, usually before most of us hit the snooze button for the first time.

They know that the key to a successful day begins long before 8 am, and they have specific things they always do to ensure they're primed for success.

Here are some things high-achievers always do before 8 am:

1) They wake up early

It's not rocket science. High achievers are known for their early-rising habits. You'd be hard-pressed to find a successful person who hits the snooze button repeatedly. Instead, they're up and about when the sky is still dark, long before the rest of the world begins to stir. It's not about sacrificing sleep. High-achievers understand the importance of rest and ensure they get enough of it - they just choose to hit the hay earlier rather than wake up late.

2)They prioritize physical activity

Swap your morning social media scroll for a 30-minute jog and you will realise the difference will be astonishing. Not only does it gives us a burst of energy to start the day, but it also provides us some much-needed time to clear our head and mentally prepare for the day ahead. Whether it's a jog, yoga session or even a quick set of push-ups, starting the day with some form of physical activity helps us feel more energized.

3)They nourish their bodies

Breakfast is often called the most important meal of the day, and high-achievers take this to heart. The brain is a demanding organ, using up to 20% of the body's total energy. That's why starting the day with a nutrient-rich meal is crucial to maintaining focus and productivity throughout the day. We should understand this link between nutrition and performance.

4)They plan their day

Every morning, we should take time to map out our day. Set clear goals, prioritize tasks, and create a structured timetable. This is not just ticking off tasks on a to-do list, but strategically planning their time to maximize productivity.

5)They make time for self-reflection

Sitting quietly with our thoughts, reflecting on our actions, and realigning with our goals and values. This practice is transformative. It helps us to regain control over our lives. It is sacred time for us to connect with ourselves, away from the noise and demands of the outside world. High achievers often practice self-reflection as part of their morning routine. It helps them stay focused on their goals, learn from their mistakes, and continually grow both personally and professionally.