Whilst the idea of cultivating a strong routine may seem restrictive to some, studies continue to show the countless benefits of rising early and utilising the hours between 5am – 9am strategically and intentionally can be great for you and your business.

In fact, research shows the common behaviours and patterns of world class performers and reveals that many high performing entrepreneurs rise early. There is a strong correlation between having a solid morning routine with greater levels of productivity, wellbeing and success.

Whether it is rising early to get in a workout, practice meditation or mindfulness, journal, read or simply time to contemplate and just be, the benefits of having a strong morning routine are significant.

Here are five ways that a strong 5-9 routine can balance your 9-5:

1. Proactive vs. reactive approach

One of the benefits of rising early, is the space it creates for CEO’s, leaders and entrepreneurs to take a more proactive rather than reactive approach to their day. By rising early and performing some form of morning meditation, a workout or simply carving out time to think and be, it can set the tone for a positive and productive day. There is value to intentionally setting each day up for success, rather than waking up and immediately reacting to the plethora of emails, news and other people’s requests.

2. Increased Productivity

Research conducted by the National Institute of Health demonstrates there is a strong correlation between wellbeing and productivity. By prioritising wellbeing first thing in the day, it sets the tone for greater levels of productivity, strengthens resiliency and increases our ability to solve problems and challenges throughout the day.

3. Spaciousness and creativity

World class performers recognise the need for creating spaciousness. Bill Gates plans his infamous ‘think weeks’ each year. Warren Buffet allocates 5-6 hours to read each day. Many CEOs can be found out on the golf course or outside on long walks. Spending time outside and away from our desks can spark creative ideas and cultivate solutions to problems.

4. Master the art of focus

In most circumstances, it is rare that Entrepreneurs and Leaders are receiving work-related emails, phone calls and notifications early in the morning. Utilising the hours between 5am, – 9am strategically can help gain uninterrupted hours in the day, encourage deep work and allow the opportunity to get into flow state – before the day becomes infiltrated by other people’s requests and priorities.

5. Improve overall health and wellbeing

By prioritising health, fitness and overall wellbeing first thing in the morning, it can help create greater levels of energy and vitality throughout the remainder of your day. Working out in the morning has additional benefits including the release of happiness hormones such as endorphins and serotonin, increased focus and promotion of better slee

Creating a strong 5-9 routine

Creating a strong 5-9 routine can help set the tone for a positive and productive 9-5. Whilst it may take some initial effort and intentionality to cultivate such a routine, the long-term benefits in terms of prioritising your productivity and overall wellbeing are significant.

This post first appeared on Business Builders December 2024 and was updated April 2025.

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