Let’s be clear, discipline isn’t about punishing yourself. It’s about training yourself to get what you want.
Disciplined people understand that the key to achieving their goals lies in their daily habits. And, interestingly enough, many of these habits take place before 9 am.
There are certain things disciplined people do before breakfast that truly set them apart. They know that by setting the tone in the morning, the rest of the day follows suit.
Here are 10 things disciplined people do before 9 am every day.
Let’s get started.
1) They set clear goals
Disciplined people are clear about their objectives. They are not wandering through life, but rather, they have a clear sense of direction.
Even before they finish their morning coffee, disciplined individuals have already outlined what they want to achieve for the day. They don’t just set these goals, but they also prioritize them.
It’s not about creating a never-ending to-do list, but about defining what is truly important. By doing this, they ensure that their day is focused on achieving meaningful results.
This ritual of goal-setting is a powerful tool that keeps them motivated and productive throughout the day. There’s no better way to start the day than with a clear sense of purpose.
2) They exercise
I’ve noticed that disciplined people tend to prioritize physical activity. They understand that a healthy body contributes to a healthy mind and overall well-being.
For instance, I have a friend who’s a successful entrepreneur. Regardless of his packed schedule, he never misses his morning run. He says it helps him clear his mind and prepares him for the challenges of the day.
Following his lead, I started incorporating exercise into my morning routine as well. Whether it’s going for a walk, doing some yoga, or hitting the gym, I make sure to get my body moving before I start my workday.
And let me tell you, it’s been a game-changer. Not only does it boost my energy levels, but it also helps me stay focused and productive throughout the day. Plus, knowing that I’ve done something good for myself first thing in the morning sets a positive tone for the rest of the day.
3) They eat a healthy breakfast
Disciplined people understand the importance of fueling their bodies with the right nutrients to start the day. Skipping breakfast is not an option for them.
Eating a healthy breakfast not only provides us with the necessary energy to tackle our daily tasks but it also kick-starts our metabolism. According to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition, individuals who eat a substantial breakfast have lower levels of hunger-inducing hormones compared to those who skip it.
Whether it’s a bowl of oatmeal, a fruit smoothie, or a protein-packed omelette, disciplined people make sure to give their bodies what they need to function at their best throughout the day. It’s not just about eating, it’s about nourishing your body with the right kinds of food.
4) They practice mindfulness
Disciplined people understand the power of the present moment. They make a conscious effort to start their day with mindfulness.
Whether it’s through meditation, journaling, or simply sitting quietly with a cup of tea, they take time to clear their minds, focus on their breathing, and simply be in the moment.
This practice has been shown to reduce stress, improve focus, and promote overall mental well-being. It’s a way to connect with oneself before connecting with the world.
By starting the day with mindfulness, disciplined people set a calm and focused tone for the rest of the day. It’s about taking control of your mind before it takes control of you.
5) They tackle the hardest tasks first
Disciplined people have a unique approach to their to-do list. They tackle the most challenging tasks first thing in the morning.
Known as “eating the frog,” this strategy is about dealing with the most difficult or least exciting tasks before moving on to easier ones. It’s based on the understanding that our energy and willpower are at their peak in the morning.
By getting the hard stuff out of the way early, they ensure that these tasks won’t loom over them all day. Plus, completing a challenging task gives a sense of accomplishment that fuels productivity for the rest of the day.
It’s not always easy, but disciplined people know that success often involves doing what others are not willing to do.
6) They express gratitude
Disciplined people recognize that being grateful is more than just good manners – it’s a mindset.
Starting the day with an attitude of gratitude sets a positive tone for the rest of the day. It shifts the focus from what’s going wrong to what’s going right, from lack to abundance.
Whether it’s jotting down a few things they’re thankful for in a gratitude journal or simply taking a moment to silently acknowledge all that they have, disciplined people make gratitude a daily habit.
This simple act of appreciation fosters happiness and positivity. It’s a gentle reminder that no matter how tough things may get, there’s always something to be thankful for. It’s about starting the day with a full heart, not just a full schedule.
7) They disconnect
In an increasingly connected world, disciplined people understand the value of disconnecting. They resist the urge to check their emails or scroll through social media first thing in the morning.
I remember a time when my mornings were consumed by a flurry of notifications and messages. It was as if my day began on someone else’s terms, not mine.
So, I made a conscious decision to start my day unplugged. The first hour after I wake up is now dedicated to me and my personal growth – not work, not social media, not anyone else’s agenda.
This practice has made a significant difference. It allows me to start my day with a clear mind, free from the distractions and demands of the digital world. It’s about reclaiming my time and setting boundaries, fostering a sense of peace and focus that carries me through the day.
8) They make time for rest
Disciplined people understand that productivity isn’t about relentless hustle. It’s about balance. They know that rest is not an indulgence, but a necessity.
While the world is still quiet, disciplined individuals carve out time for restful activities. This could be a few extra minutes in bed, a leisurely walk, or simply sitting with a cup of coffee and watching the world wake up.
This might seem like a waste of valuable time to some, but it’s actually a strategic move. By allowing themselves to ease into the day, they’re setting up their minds and bodies for optimal performance.
It’s a gentle reminder that we are human beings, not human doings. Taking time to rest is integral to maintaining energy, creativity, and overall well-being.
9) They learn something new
Disciplined people are lifelong learners. They seize the quiet morning hours as an opportunity to expand their knowledge and skills.
Whether it’s reading a chapter of a book, listening to a podcast, or watching an educational video, they make sure to feed their minds with useful information.
This habit not only improves their skills and knowledge but also stimulates their minds, preparing them for the day.
Constant learning also instills a sense of growth and progression, which is incredibly motivating. It’s about starting the day with curiosity and an eagerness to grow.
Knowledge is power. And disciplined people know how to harness that power to their advantage.
10) They visualize success
Disciplined people set their sights on success from the moment they wake up. They take time each morning to visualize their goals and the steps they need to take to achieve them.
This mental rehearsal primes them for success. It’s about seeing it before you do it, feeling the success before it happens.
Visualization is more than just a motivational tool. It’s a powerful technique that trains the brain for success and helps turn abstract goals into concrete reality.
They close their eyes, imagine their success vividly, and then open them ready to make it happen. It’s not just dreaming about success, it’s preparing for it.
