Get up Early

Get up early, this is my secret for staying productive. Even after long working hours, the secret is all about the early morning.

That may not appear to be particularly new or unique, but hear me out. Mornings are when I think best and get the most done, and it’s been that way pretty much my whole life. Back in days, morning meetings were a breeze; I could stay focused no matter what the subject. Even though by mid-afternoon I start to feel tired but still in the productivity mood that will push me through all day.

It was then that I began to define myself as a morning person. Once I accepted it, I wanted to make the most of it: not matter what time you go to bed, early or late, just get to wake up early.

We all have our ebbs and flows throughout the day. The trick is figuring out the blocks of time when you’re most engaged and then working to capitalize on that time. Even adjusting your lifestyle to it.

Over the years, I’ve found ways to help deal with my energy dips — whether it’s taking a break, getting up to stretch or going for a walk, even if it’s just around the floor. Sometimes I feel more refreshed simply after stopping by a colleague’s office and having a conversation. I get energy from others, so that kind of conversation can really revitalize me. And the break in routine makes a huge difference. 

As I realized this about myself, I’ve learned to appreciate it in the people I work with as well. They have their own best and worst moments during the day, too. Unfortunately, in today’s culture, people think that they have to work long hours with unfailing energy — otherwise they won’t measure up, or they’ll be labeled slackers.

In fact, I’ve found that people who push themselves like that are rarely more productive; if anything, the lack of rest probably undermines the times when they could be working smarter. Productivity is about how we work – how attentive, mindful, creative and productive we are. And that, in the end, comes down to energy and passion, knowing when we have it and – maybe more important – when we don’t.