Most of us want to emulate successful people and we tend to believe if we worked as hard as they did, we would be successful just like them. However, real life is a lot more complex than maxims we hold to be true. Yet, the more we observe successful people, the more it becomes clear that they are usually disciplined, organized and have a schedule that suits them. One might want to remember that having a schedule is all about making things easy for oneself. So, whether you are an early bird or a night owl, adjust the following schedule to suit your personal clock.
They Wake Up Early and Have a Good Breakfast
It is a well known fact that one feels energized when one wakes up early (assuming they went to bed early). Waking up early provides extra waking hours, which is necessary for a busy individual. Most writers, for instance, are known to wake up in the wee hours and work when the sun is still rising. Successful people ensure that they have a heavy breakfast to sustain and nourish themselves through the day. Research now shows that a good and heavy breakfast keeps you alert, thanks to its blood sugar level modulating effects.
How do you do this if you go to sleep late?
While waking up early is an ideal situation, our realities are not always ideal. If you are unable to sleep early so that you can wake up early, fret not. Try to wake up when you can, but do make sure to have a heavy breakfast as this is biologically crucial. If your sleep cycle is bothering you, you might need to see a doctor.
They Workout
Successful people always include some physical activity in spite of their busy schedules. It is best if you can do this right when you wake up, instead of postponing this to the end of the day, when your body will already be tired. Going for a jog or working out in the gym releases endorphins, the feel-good chemical, which ensures that we remain free of stress.
What if you don’t have time to workout?
There is simply no excuse not to workout, unless you are truly unwell. While it is ideal to exercise soon after you wake up, it may not always be possible. Try to exercise when you can, at least 5 times a week.
They Don’t Postpone Work
Nothing is more important than focusing on work soon after having a breakfast. This is the time when people are at their physical and mental best. Successful people know this, and usually prioritize the most important tasks of the day and finish them. Postponing work for later usually leads to a less efficient outcome or decreased productivity, as our minds and bodies grow tired post-lunch.
What if you can’t prioritize work?
There are several productivity and scheduling apps out there, which can help you to remind yourself what’s important. If apps aren’t your cup of coffee, grab a notepad and pen, and create a work schedule.
They Socialize and Network
Successful people know that socializing with friends and family is equally important. Work shouldn’t eclipse our personal lives and those who have achieved a lot in their lives will tell you that spending time with loved ones helps them focus better on work, as they feel refreshed. Professional networking is also part of successful people’s daily schedule. They do not forget to make those calls, send those emails or meet a client for coffee.
With whom do I socialize?
Of course, not everyone is privileged enough to have friends and family. A number of us live lonely or isolated lives. In such a scenario, getting a pet cat or a dog can help. Otherwise, one can always find friends and socialize online. Moreover, professional networking can also lead to personal friendships.
They Spend Time Alone
While it is important to socialize with people, it is equally crucial to spend some time alone. Spending time alone gives us an opportunity to introspect, rejuvenate ourselves and emerge more refreshed. Successful people usually meditate, write a diary or just relax by the couch in order to feel rejuvenated.
What if you don’t have enough time?
Try to unwind and relax when you can. It could be while you are on your way to office on the train, or even when you are driving. Play some music or nurture yourself the way you wish to.
They Work on Their Emotional Health
Every successful individual will tell you that being emotionally healthy is very important for remaining productive. If you are stressed out, you will not be able to work efficiently or develop good relationships with your colleagues. This is probably why most successful people seek professional psychotherapy regularly, even if they are not psychologically disturbed. Practice meditation or mindfulness-based exercises everyday and enhance your emotional health.
What if your emotional health has deteriorated?
You should seek professional help as soon as you can. Seeking help for mental illness still comes with a stigma but getting support can help you become productive and achieve everything you realistically can.
They Have Interests and Hobbies
Successful people have a wide variety of interests, which helps them to learn about the world around them. They spend at least an hour on their interests, which could be listening to music, sewing or just cooking something delicious. Hobbies help them to remain occupied, to find joy in things outside their professional life, and also to network with people which could lead to positive personal or professional outcomes.
What if I don’t have any hobbies?
If you do not have any hobbies, cultivate a hobby! All of us are inclined to different things and you will only know what interests you when you start trying new things. Explore your interests and if you find something that interests you, develop it into a hobby.
There are no specific rules to achieve success, only frameworks
As you can see, successful people keep themselves busy while also finding time for themselves. When you find a balance between healthy living, finishing tasks, socializing and getting some rest, you can rest assured that you are on your way to becoming successful.
