One night during my stay in Upington last week, there was a bit of thunder and lightning with some rain – nothing of which could have happened if the conditions were not right.
If the conditions in nature are right, things happen.
The same is true for us. To be productive, our “conditions” have to be right.
It can be simple things like getting enough sleep, exercising and eating well. Or having a routine you follow in the morning (for planning) or afternoon (for review and learning). Or saying “no” more often.
Here are some of the things successful people routinely do first thing in the morning.
And here’s a summary:
- Tony Robbins practices gratitude and visualization.
- Tim Cook does his email at 4:30 a.m.
- David Karp checks his email when he arrives at the office.
- Mark Twain recommended doing the hardest task first.
- Howard Schultz believes in getting priorities established.
- Geraldine Laybourne believes in helping the next generation.
- Laura Vanderkam recommends writing a challenging report or email.
- John Grisham believes in a strict routine.
- Todd Smith always greets colleagues appropriately.
- Benjamin Franklin always wanted to be helpful in the morning.
- Steve Murphy devotes morning time to planning.
- Tim Armstrong recommends learning and listening.
Everyone does something different but everyone knows and creates the conditions that get their day off to a great start.
How about you? Do you know the conditions that make you productive?
Take some time every day this week to write down the things that are “in place” when you are in top gear productivity mode. Or what is missing when you slump into low productivity. Then use these insights to create your own conditions for high productivity.
Have fun!
Productivity quote: ”The secret of your future is hidden in your daily routine.” – Mike Murdock
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Gerrit Cloete 