For the first twenty-plus years of my adult life, my morning routine revolved around: what is the absolute last possible minute I can set my alarm where I have time to shower, shave, and still make it to the office on time?
When I say the “absolute last possible minute,” I mean: Absolute. Last. Possible. Minute.
There’s a better way. And a better life. It starts with getting up an hour earlier, says Hal Elrod in The Miracle Morning. Then, spending that hour investing in ourselves and intentionally preparing for the day ahead.
Jim Rohn tells us: “Your level of success will rarely exceed your level of personal development because success is something you attract by the person you become.”
Hold on a minute. Get up an hour earlier? I can’t do that!!
Yes, you can. Trust me, no one likes their sleep more than me. If I can do it, you can do it. At first, it’s going to… suck. Sorry for the crude word. But, in this case it’s the best word. Understanding it’s going to be difficult is the key. Hal breaks it down into three stages:
Phase 1: First 10 days – unbearable but… temporary. Be prepared. And don’t give up.
Phase 2: Days 11-20 – uncomfortable, but no longer unbearable. You can do this! Discipline and commitment required.
Phase 3: Days 21-30 – becomes part of your identity. When transformation occurs.
Hal tells us: “Everything is difficult before it is easy. Every new experience is uncomfortable before it’s comfortable.”
There are some things we can do to make it easier. First, actively and mindfully create a positive expectation for the next morning. Next: do not hit snooze. Move your alarm across the room and get up when it rings. Consider brushing your teeth, drinking a full glass of water, and perhaps putting on workout gear.
Now, it’s go time. More tomorrow.
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Reflection: What would it cost me to get up an hour earlier to focus on my personal development? How might I benefit?
Action: Buy The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod and read it.
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