Waking Up Early – A Habit that Transforms Life
Waking up early can transform your life. Learn the benefits of an early start, from improved productivity and health to enhanced focus and well-being. Embrace this simple yet powerful habit to unlock your full potential.
Life is full of choices, and some of the simplest can have the most profound impact. As I reflect on my own journey, I feel compelled to share a few insights that could help you not only succeed but lead a truly fulfilling life. Today, I’d like to discuss one habit that, though simple, has the potential to change everything: waking up early.
Looking back, I wish I had embraced this habit sooner. When I was younger, despite my father’s urging, I avoided early mornings. Late-night study sessions became my routine, and the idea of rising with the sun felt impossible. But life has a way of teaching us lessons, and one of mine came during my time as the Sports Editor at Zee News in Delhi. Working night shifts, eating erratically, and letting my health slip led me to high blood pressure and a stressful lifestyle.
After leaving that job, I committed to waking up early each day—a decision that changed my life. I became healthier, more productive, and felt a new sense of clarity. I encourage you to give it a try. Start small, but make it a habit. The difference it can make is remarkable.
Why Wake Up Early?
There’s a wealth of wisdom supporting the benefits of an early start. Books like The 5 AM Club by Robin S. Sharma, Morning Miracle by Hal Elrod, and Haruki Murakami’s What I Talk About When I Talk About Running offer inspiring perspectives on the advantages of waking early. When I returned to North Bengal from Delhi, I turned to these works, and they inspired me to take control of my mornings.
Now, I start my day at 5 AM with a half-hour of meditation, followed by a walk. This morning routine gives me a head start on the day, enabling me to stay calm and focused. The quiet hours allow me to read and write without interruptions—early mornings are when I penned my two books. The world is peaceful, and the mind is at its best, free from the day’s anxieties and distractions.
The Benefits of Meditation and Early Study
Meditation is another key part of my morning. The peace that comes from these early hours is hard to find during the bustling day. With meditation, I’ve become more centered and focused. Waking up early also provides time for a productive study session before school, which is far more effective than late-night cramming. Early risers tend to retain information better, perform academically, and feel more relaxed throughout the day.
Starting with Healthy Habits
An early start sets a positive tone for the rest of the day, especially in terms of health. After meditating and recharging, I’m less likely to reach for unhealthy food and more inclined to fuel my body with nutritious options. This mindful approach to mornings affects every choice I make throughout the day.
Additionally, waking early has improved my sleep quality. In the past, my late-night routine left me struggling to fall asleep, but now, rising at 5 AM means I’m ready to rest naturally by 10:30 PM. This deeper, more restful sleep keeps me energized and sharp.
Pushing Through the Resistance
Of course, starting this habit isn’t easy. Even the most dedicated early risers don’t leap out of bed with enthusiasm every day. In What I Talk About When I Talk About Running, Murakami recalls an Olympic athlete admitting that he feels the urge to stay in bed every single morning—but he pushes through. That’s what makes the difference.
A 2013 interview in The Guardian highlighted how CEOs of major companies also rise early—not out of preference, but because they understand the benefits. They have mastered the discipline of doing difficult things, and this resilience is key to their success.
In Conclusion
If you aspire to be successful, consider making early rising a part of your life. Use this quiet time to meditate, study, and prepare for the day ahead. You’ll notice improvements in memory, productivity, and overall well-being. You’ll find yourself feeling calmer, more focused, and more present in your relationships. And, perhaps most importantly, you’ll be on a path to becoming the best version of yourself.
Waking up early changed my life, and I’m confident it can change yours too.
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