Transformative Daily Habits for Success
Image by Emily Michelson
As a photographer and business owner of 8 years, I've definitely experienced the challenges and rewards that come with entrepreneurship and a creative career. Through reading blogs and studying successful entrepreneurs over the years, I've discovered daily habits that have not only transformed my day but have had a profound impact on my business, and personal life. In hopes of helping you create a productive day that leaves you feeling positive, and full of inspiration, I’ve created this blog post where I'll share tips and insights that have helped me set my days up for success, and will also help lead you towards a more fulfilling and productive daily routine.
1. Set an alarm and commit:
One of the most important habits I've adopted is setting a consistent wake-up time and committing to it. No more setting the alarm and pressing snooze 3 times before getting up. By making that first move to get out of bed as soon as your alarm goes off is already setting you up for a win. Research actually shows us that you will feel more tired by hitting snooze than when your body first wakes up. This one small thing not only sets the tone for the day, but also establishes discipline. Research by the National Sleep Foundation suggests that a regular wake-up time can improve sleep quality and overall health. I originally learned this tip from Mel Robbins who speaks to this specifically in this podcast episode, The #1 Hack for Bing More Productive Tomorrow.
2. Don't look at a phone until 8 am:
Mindless scrolling and checking notifications is the opposite of productive and takes us out of the beauty of the physical world. By taking the time to focus on you and your morning, you will feel setup to start your day with a clear and focused mind. Avoiding your phone first thing in the morning allows you to start your day with intention rather than being reactive to notifications and emails. For more on this, read "Digital Minimalism" by Cal Newport dives into the benefits of reducing digital distractions and regaining control over your time.
3. Move your body first thing:
Exercise is not only crucial for physical health but also for mental clarity and creativity. Research shows that by exercising first thing in the morning, your body releases BDNF which has been shown to repair brain cells damaged from stress and helps speed up neural connection along with promoting Neurogenesis, the growth of new brain cells. Your body also releases neurotransmitters such as Dopamine (helps with motivation) and Serotonin (helps with happiness), and finally it helps fire up the metabolism! (Source article)
4. Create a list of 3 wins for the day and no more than 3:
Focusing on a few key tasks prevents overwhelm and boosts productivity. Research in psychology, such as the Zeigarnik Effect, suggests that incomplete tasks occupy mental space. By limiting your daily tasks to three wins, you ensure that you accomplish meaningful goals, and are staying in a positive state of mind. I find I’m more productive and by measuring these small steps towards my larger “big picture” goals helps me stay motivated.
5. Take 15 mins to Meditate and Journal:
Taking a few minutes in the morning for a mindfulness meditation can improve focus and reduce stress. I’ve found by incorporating this time into my day keeps my head clear from distractions and anxiety. Additionally, journaling helps process thoughts and emotions. "The Miracle of Mindfulness" by Thich Nhat Hanh and "The Artist's Way" by Julia Cameron are excellent resources to explore these practices.
6. Create a 5-hour window of undisturbed and uninterrupted work:
According to Robin Sharma in “The Everyday Hero Manifesto”, just five hours of undisturbed, fierce, steady and exquisite work is ideal during the workdays, because anything over five hours is completely unnecessary and will actually lead to diminished returns because you’re tired! If you’re self employed, maybe give this a try and see what the results are in your personal and professional life. By carving out the productive “work” time in the morning will free up time for friends, family, and more creative time.
7. Go for a walk or get a quick second workout in:
A mid-day walk or short workout can re-energize your body and mind. Research from Stanford University reveals that walking can boost creative thinking. Author Robin Sharma introduced me to the “2nd wind workout” which is supposed to be a lower impact workout, could be yoga, or a walk in nature. The purpose is to take time to contemplate the day, and energize you for the last part of the day. By refuelling your body with oxygen and reconnecting with nature will allow you to reduce stress and have a more positive outlook on the day.
8. Write down your 3 wins at the end of the day:
Reflecting on your accomplishments reinforces a sense of achievement and progress. Incorporating this simple practice can enhance your motivation, and leave you with a feeling of accomplishment and pride. Research has also shown that by journaling and reflecting on the day has shown to have positive effects on sleep. I’m currently reading, “The Gap and the Gain” by Dr. Benjamin Hardy and Dan Sullivan which discusses the importance of writing down the top three wins from the day. Here’s a quote from the book: “When you take the time daily to recognize your achievements, you’re building a muscle.”
Incorporating these daily habits into your routine can transform your days, ultimately leading to a more successful and fulfilling life as a photographer and business owner. Remember that consistency is key, and over time, these habits can become second nature, helping you achieve your goals and unlock your full potential.
Thanks for reading, and I wish you a successful day ahead!
Nicole