When I started my entrepreneur journey back in 2019, I used to work long night shifts, sometimes until 3, 4, or 5 am.
But it wasn't sustainable and very disruptive to family life.
My kids were small, and my wife was responsible for the morning routine. It didn't work out...
So, I decided to change my routine.
Instead of building at night, I built with the early birds.
And I am happy I did it!
Advantages:
- I have much more energy in the morning
- There are no distractions at all (no kids, no noise, no notifications)
- I can help wake up the kids
Trade-offs
- You have much less time available than the whole night
- You usually have a hard stop
- If not disciplined, you tend to sleep fewer hours
It took me some time to get used to it, but once you do, you feel your days are longer and more productive.
I usually finish my day with a CrossFit class. Typically, at 7 pm, I go to my Box and disconnect from my work and laptop.
When I return from sport, I rarely open the PC, allowing me to wind down slowly without having my mind on full power with the work.
Before I changed my routine, I usually had insomnia.
My mind couldn't stop thinking about what I was working on, trying to solve problems and find solutions while sleeping.
Now, it has never happened again.
I am only realizing that now, but it makes sense. I give my brain enough time to discharge the day's work and get ready for sleep.
That's why I am much less active on socials at night.
Sometimes, I regret it, as a lot happens in the evenings, but it's a good trade-off.
Joining the 5 am club was among the best productivity hacks I found!