Successful people wake up earlier.
That doesn’t mean if you’re not a morning person you should become one.
But I will say from personal experience the benefits may convert you.
1. Better Energy – Even if you’ve had a poor sleep or want to stay in bed longer, focus on the feeling after completing a workout. I’ve never left the gym saying to myself, “I wish I stayed in bed longer.” It’s always, “I’m glad I went.” It’s a feeling you should chase. The only exception is if you’re sick, injured or got less than 4 hours of sleep. The payoff happens after. As tired as you were forcing yourself to the gym, chances are you won’t hit the wall in the afternoon because working out releases endorphins that last up to 12 hours. Getting that extra hour of sleep won’t equate to more than the energy released post-workout through the day.
2. More Focus – Similar to caffeine, the greatest boost happens immediately after. Identify when you’re the most productive and plan to workout before then. For some this may mean the afternoon or evening, but the problem is you’re working during that time and knowing the boost happens after you waste part of it sleeping. For example I tend to do my best work between 9 AM – 2 PM so I workout around 7 or 8 AM. Before lunch I try to not schedule any meetings or phone calls because I want uninterrupted time to myself. Post lunch I can do more independent work, but meetings can give me an afternoon jolt that extends my efficiency. Experiment what works for you, but if you work out in the morning you have the rest of the day to reap the benefits.
3. Better Health – The more healthy you are, the more productive you are. The reason companies promote wellness programs is because the healthier you are, the less sick days you take. Going to the gym regularly may not reverse genetics, but it creates a good habit of exerting energy towards better health. When you feel good, you tend to produce better work. Intangible benefits such as increased confidence, more stamina and more alertness come natural with being healthy. Pair this with high proteins, green vegetables and less carbs and it’s a powerful outcome. Don’t underestimate the physical influence on work performance. If you’re not feeling well it shows externally in your work.
I won’t be able to convince you all, but I swear by morning workouts to the point when I don’t do some type of physical activity 5 times a week in the morning I actually feel sick. Consider it your coffee replacement. Much cheaper and better for you. Try it and you’ll get hooked on a habit that will change your lifestyle.
Growing Forward 