Entrepreneurs, business owners, real estate agents are unique breeds that share a common trait…they like to do things their own way in their own time. Being on their own, in fact, is one of the most fundamental things that motivates them to be “on their own.”
A major pro and con of being one “on their own” business person is that no one tells them what, how, when, where or with whom to do. It’s all on their own shoulders whether they “feel” like it or not. As a consequence, most all of these entrepreneur types tend to be obsessive about adhering to their habits. Simply, their habits help them achieve their goals, sustain motivation, and help eliminate wasted time. Most importantly? The 7 things they all do before 7am daily.
- They are wide awake. With the appropriate amount of sleep, seven to nine hours a night, they can get current on the news of the day, gather their thoughts, exercise…all present tense activities that prevent them from being rushed, frazzled, unfocused. Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Group, says “I’ve always been an early riser. I like keeping a positive outlook and keeping fit…waking up early is a habit…that allows me to achieve so much more in a day…”
- They avoid the phone. They set their goals for the day rather than being distracted or stressed by diving into their inbox, angry emails, social media.
- They exercise or meditate. Both exercise and meditation help reduce stress, increase energy, boost the immune system, etc. And both help them focus on what they need to achieve during the day even when they’re not consciously thinking about what they need to achieve. Also, new ideas occur during exercise and/or meditation.
- They eat a healthy breakfast…healthy carbs like oatmeal or rye toast; low fat protein like eggs, nuts, greens, beans; fruits and veggies; dairy alternatives like soy, almond or rice milk. Travis Bradberry, author of Emotional IQ 2.0, also recommends drinking a hot cup of water with lemon first thing on an empty stomach.
- They read and/or write something that lifts their spirits. Tim Ferriss, author of The 4 Hour Work Week, writes in his journal for 5 minutes every morning. “…it’s a therapeutic intervention for me…I feel better throughout the day, happier, more content…none of which that comes naturally to me…” Or, they read an inspiring book, memorize motivational quotes, write down things/people for which/whom they are grateful.
- They all set their goals and priorities in writing…daily. Later, to be most effective, they start by going about accomplishing the hardest, most dreaded goal/task on that list so they get it out of the way without procrastinating about doing it.
- Then, they get down to the business at hand…they seize their phone, read/send emails, check their social media feeds, read the news of their industry/business, review yesterday’s sales metrics, etc.
Are you in need of a productive schedule? Check out our podcast on the importance of the real estate daily schedule, so that after you’re done these 7 great morning habits you can make the most of your business day!
