10 things disciplined people do before 9 am every day

Ever found yourself marveling at that one person who seems to have their life together, all before the clock strikes 9 am?

Chances are, you’ve just encountered a disciplined person.

Their routine might appear fascinating or even intimidating to those of us who can barely scramble together a cup of coffee by mid-morning. But the truth is, disciplined individuals simply have a different approach to starting their day.

So, let’s delve into the world of these early birds and explore 10 things disciplined people do before 9 am every day.

Actions that may seem eccentric to some, but are in fact standard practices for those with a high level of discipline.

1. Waking up Early

For some, the thought of voluntarily waking up before dawn may seem bizarre. Yet, for disciplined individuals, this is a standard part of their daily routine.

Disciplined people understand the value of time. They recognize that by rising early, they can get a head start on their day before the world around them wakes up.

This doesn’t mean they’re immune to the lure of a warm bed. But they value their goals and productivity more than a few extra minutes of sleep.

Whether it’s hitting the gym, preparing a healthy breakfast, or simply planning their day, disciplined individuals cherish these quiet dawn hours for uninterrupted productivity.

When you’re struggling to hit snooze on your alarm clock, remember it’s not weird.

Disciplined people are just utilizing the early morning to kickstart their day in the most effective way they know how – by waking up early.

2. Planning the Day

I’ve always been intrigued by those who seem to have a mapped-out plan for every minute of their day. It’s a habit I’ve noticed among disciplined people, and one I’ve tried to incorporate into my own routine.

Disciplined people understand the importance of planning. They know that “winging it” often leads to wasted time and missed opportunities. So before 9 am, they’ve already outlined their tasks for the day.

I remember when I first started this practice. The night before, I’d jot down my to-do list for the next day. Then, in the calm of the early morning, I’d review and refine it.

And you know what? It worked. My days became more structured, my mind less cluttered, and my productivity soared.

When you stumble upon a well-organized planner or an intricately detailed to-do list, remember it’s not an obsession.

It’s a strategy employed by disciplined individuals to ensure they make the most of their day – by planning it well in advance.

3. Physical Activity

The idea of engaging in physical activity while the majority are still snuggled in their beds may seem strange to some. However, for disciplined people, this is just another vital element of their morning routine.

Disciplined individuals recognize the importance of physical health and its impact on their overall well-being and productivity.

They know that exercise is not only beneficial for the body but also for the mind. It’s a fantastic way to kickstart the day, shake off any residual sleepiness, and prepare for what lies ahead.

Whether it’s a brisk jog around the neighborhood, a quick yoga session, or an intense workout at the gym, disciplined folks make it a point to move their bodies before 9 am.

Next time you see someone out on a run while the world is still waking up, remember it’s not outlandish.

It’s just another way disciplined people set themselves up for success – by prioritizing physical activity early in the day.

4. Eating a Nutritious Breakfast

While the allure of sugary cereals and pastries can be hard to resist, disciplined people often opt for a more nutritious start to their day.

They understand that the food they consume in the morning can set the tone for their energy levels and productivity throughout the day. As such, they prioritize a balanced breakfast that provides a steady release of energy.

This might explain why you’ll often find disciplined folks enjoying foods like eggs, yogurt, whole grains, and fresh fruits for their morning meal.

When you see someone passing up the doughnuts for a bowl of oatmeal and berries, know that it’s not peculiar.

It’s just another way disciplined individuals ensure they’re fueling their bodies right – by starting their day with a nutritious breakfast.

5. Expressing Gratitude

In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to overlook the small blessings that make our lives beautiful.

But disciplined people make it a point to pause and express gratitude, often before 9 am.

They understand the profound impact of gratitude on their overall well-being.

Taking a few moments each morning to acknowledge the good in their lives helps them start their day with a positive mindset and an open heart.

Whether it’s jotting down a few things they’re thankful for in a gratitude journal, or simply taking a moment to appreciate the sunrise, these individuals make gratitude a part of their morning routine.

It’s just another way disciplined individuals cultivate positivity and mindfulness – by expressing gratitude at the start of their day.

6. Tackling the Toughest Task

While many of us procrastinate on difficult tasks, disciplined people have a different approach. They tend to tackle their most challenging task before 9 am.

They understand the concept of “eating the frog,” a term derived from a famous Mark Twain quote. It suggests that if you do the hardest thing on your plate first thing in the morning, the rest of the day will be easier in comparison.

Whether it’s completing a complex report, making an uncomfortable phone call, or solving a difficult problem, disciplined people often deal with it first thing in the morning.

7. Avoiding Digital Distractions

In a world where our phones often serve as alarm clocks, it’s easy to get sucked into a vortex of emails, social media, and news the second we wake up. However, disciplined individuals often choose to avoid these digital distractions in the early morning.

They understand the value of starting their day with a clear mind, free from the clutter and noise of the digital world.

They know that checking their phone first thing can lead to stress and anxiety, which is not how they wish to begin their day.

Whether it’s placing their phone on airplane mode, using a traditional alarm clock, or simply resisting the urge to scroll, disciplined people maintain a digital-free morning routine.

8. Hydrating Properly

While coffee is a popular choice to kick-start the day, disciplined people often choose to start their day with a glass of water.

They understand that overnight, our bodies can become mildly dehydrated. Drinking water upon waking helps to rehydrate the body, kickstart the metabolism, and assist in digestion.

Whether it’s a glass of plain water, warm lemon water, or even infused water, disciplined individuals make it a point to hydrate before reaching for that morning cup of joe.

9. Mindful Breathing

In the early morning rush, it’s easy to forget about something as simple and vital as our breath. But for me, mindful breathing has become an essential part of my morning routine.

Taking a few minutes to focus on my breath, feeling the air fill my lungs and then slowly leave my body, helps me center myself and prepare for the day ahead.

This practice not only calms my mind but also provides a sense of grounding that carries me through the day.

10. Setting Intentions

The most powerful habit that disciplined people engage in before 9 am every day is setting intentions.

They understand that by consciously choosing how they want to approach their day, they gain control over their actions and reactions.

Whether it’s setting a goal for the day, deciding on a positive mindset, or determining to be kind to everyone they meet, disciplined individuals start their day by setting clear and positive intentions.