Apparently, if you want to be a highly efficient individual, you should start your day at 4 a.m. A recent report from the Wall Street Journal said that 4 a.m. is actually the most productive time of day. If I sound a bit incredulous, it's probably because I am. I am a natural night owl, so waking up at that hour is just not an option for me. However, WSJ's arguments are pretty convincing.
At 4 a.m., the rest of the world is still asleep (at least most of the people who share your timezone). That means you'll have totally uninterrupted time to yourself. There's less overall distractions, no one will be bombarding your inbox or phone, and even social media won't be as much of a distraction.
This time doesn't necessarily need to be used for actual work. Instead, it can be used for much-needed me-time. Spend that extra hour or two on an activity that energizes you -- exercise, meditation, reading, journaling, and self care.
Time Cook, the CEO of Apple begins his day at 3:45 a.m. Richard Branson's alarm clock goes off at 5 a.m. Michelle Glass, the former president of Starbucks EMEA and current chief merchandising and customer service officer at Kohl's, starts her day at 4:30 a.m. Each of these super successful individuals uses the time for exercise and spend a little extra time with family.
The benefits and proof are undeniable, but that kind of schedule is definitely not for everybody. Would you try it?
