Lifehacking Before 8 AM

What do you do before 8 am?

What kind of routines do you have? How do you start the day? Do you just roll out of bed dreading another day after being jolted awake by your alarm?

These are the kinds of things we face each day. Monday mornings are a pain sometimes.

Entrepreneurs have long created their own schedules. In fact, that’s one of the reasons they are entrepreneurs: a chance to set their own schedules. After all, entrepreneurs know what kind of routines make them perform better, and, often, it is not the kind of routine they are often pushed into while working for someone else.

Recently, I came across a fascinating blog post by Benjamin Hardy entitled “8 Things Every Person Should Do Before 8 A.M.”

Hardy gives some really interesting advice of the first 8 things that everyone should consider doing before 8 A.M.

Hardy reminds us that, sometimes, we can find ourselves in survival mode, but that, ultimately, it is up to us to leave behind survival mode.

He quips, just before he reveals his list, “You get to decide. You must decide — because if you don’t, someone else will. Indecision is a bad decision.”

Indeed, the list is very focused, very purposeful. The variety of tasks engage one’s entire being, it’s very holistic.

First, he says, each person should get 7+ hours of healthy sleep. Sleep is often undervalued in our society. Hardy lays out the reasons, and, to be sure, we all know them, we just don’t abide by the reasons and get the sleep.

Second, he tells us, to engage in prayer and meditation. This, it seems, is all about cultivating an attitude of gratitude.

He says, “If you start every morning putting yourself in a space of gratitude and clarity, you will attract the best the world has to offer, and not get distracted.”

Third, is hard physical activity. The need for more exercise in our society is hard to ignore. Get moving.

Number four is to consume 30 grams of protein for breakfast. Hardy says, “Eating protein first decreases your white carbohydrate cravings. These are the types of carbs that get you fat. Think bagels, toast, and donuts.” Recognize anything? Most of us eat a breakfast made of bread.

Number five is take a cold shower. This was new to me, but apparently Tony Robbins practices this. Hardy makes some good points, but, I’m not sure I’m ready to dive in just yet.

Hardy points out, “A 2007 research study found that taking cold showers routinely can help treat depression symptoms often more effectively than prescription medications. That’s because cold water triggers a wave of mood-boosting neurochemicals which make you feel happy.”

The sixth thing Hardy mentions is to listen to or read uplifting content. Commute times have often been a haven for audio books and/or podcasts. Just make sure that your material improves and gives you a positive attitude.

The last two things to do are goal-oriented. Number seven is to review your life vision and number eight is to “Do at least one thing towards long-term goals.” Hardy warns that not doing the hard stuff first thing in the day will only cause them not to be completed.

What kind of things do you do in the morning to get ready for the day? Let us know. Tweet what you do to @tejones.