The 5 AM Club: Purposeful routines for busy executives
As a busy executive, I've always been someone who values efficiency over everything else. I'm used to waking up early, but instead of taking a few moments to focus on myself, I would go straight to my work desk, trying to 'finish' work and take advantage of the quiet time. However, I soon realised that this approach was not sustainable, nor did it allow me to perform my best. That's when I discovered the 5 AM Club framework, which helped me to achieve more purposeful mornings.
Starting the day early
The 5 AM Club framework is simple yet transformative. The concept is based on waking up at 5 AM to start your day with personal development and productivity before the rest of the world. I, too, was sceptical at first, but the idea of having a purposeful morning rather than just starting work early was very appealing.
The 20/20/20 formula
I found myself using the framework 20/20/20 formula, which breaks down the first hour of your day into three 20-minute segments: 20 minutes for exercise, 20 minutes for reflection/journaling, and 20 minutes for learning. Incorporating these exercises in the morning helped me to take small yet essential steps towards self-improvement every day.
Building a purposeful morning routine
The routine meant I started with something physical, such as a quick 20-minute workout to energise my body, then reflect on my goals and intentions for the day ahead. I also started reading or learning something new to expand my knowledge and spark some inspiration.
Adopting good habits
Moreover, the 5 AM Club framework helped me adopt a morning routine focused on personal development. I replaced the need to take care of my work-related tasks with meditation, gratitude practices, and setting daily intentions. I can't tell you how much difference this form of self-care has made in my life.
The 5 AM Club taught me that building good habits takes time, but the results are worth the wait.
Surrounding yourself with positive people
One of the most significant benefits of joining the 5 AM Club has been the ability to surround myself with positive and goal-oriented individuals. The Club has provided ample opportunities to meet like-minded people and build my network to push me forward.
Conclusion
The 5 AM Club framework has transformed my morning routine into something that is more purposeful, and I now start my days feeling energised and more focused. It has had a positive impact on my productivity and overall mental and emotional wellbeing, and has allowed me to build good habits and meaningful connections. I'm present in every moment of every day, thanks to the mindfulness techniques and the focus on self-care.
References and resources
Stephen R. Covey (1988) -
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change.
Charles Duhigg (2014) - The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business.
David Goggins (2018) - Can't Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds.
James Clear (2018) - Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones.
Michael Hyatt (2019) - Free to Focus: A Total Productivity System to Achieve More by Doing Less.
Robin Sharma (2023) - The 5 AM Club.
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About Dr Richard Dune
Dr Richard Dune is a leading health and social care governance
expert. Throughout his career, he has worked in various settings
across the UK, including NHS Trusts, research and development, academic institutions, and private companies.
His work primarily focuses on developing, deploying and evaluating technologies, such as clinical decision support systems,
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Dr Dune regularly writes about topical issues affecting the UK's
health and social care sectors. Additionally, he speaks at
conferences, stakeholder workshops, and professional forums. Dr Dune is also a research fellow at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire in the Research, Development and Innovation department. His other passions include content development, education, and coaching. Click here to read more articles by Dr
Dune.
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