What Top CEOs Do Before 9 A.M. (And How You Can, Too)
Mornings.
Some of us wake up ready to conquer the world. Others hit snooze three times, wonder what day it is, and check emails half-asleep. No judgement - we’ve all been there.
But have you ever wondered what the world’s most successful CEOs are doing while you’re debating whether to get up or just roll over for “five more minutes”? Spoiler: They’re not scrolling TikTok or panic-reading yesterday’s emails.
Turns out, top CEOs tend to treat their mornings like a sacred window for getting ahead - not just in business, but mentally, physically and emotionally. Think of it less like hustle culture, and more like high-performance self-care. Here's what they’re up to before 9 a.m., and how you can steal a few tricks without becoming a robot.
1. They move - early and often
Whether it’s a run, yoga, or lifting actual heavy things, CEOs prioritise physical movement. It’s not about six-pack abs - it’s about shaking off brain fog and boosting focus. You don’t need a Peloton and a protein shake. Just get your body going. Walk the dog. Stretch like you mean it. Do something.
2. They don't check emails first thing
This one hurts, I know. But top execs often avoid the inbox vortex until they’ve had time to think, plan and prioritise. They start on purpose, not in panic. Try waiting 30 minutes. Breathe. Think. Maybe even journal. Your inbox will wait. It always does.
3. They set intentions (without being weird about it)
You won’t find most CEOs writing a love letter to their "inner child" each morning (unless that’s their thing). But they do take a few minutes to mentally map out the day, usually with one key goal or area of focus. No complicated system. Just a quick gut check: What actually matters today?
4. They read or learn something
Newsflash: CEOs are often big readers. Not just business books, either. Some read poetry, some listen to podcasts, some dive into market trends. The point is, they make space for input - before the output starts.
5. They build rituals, not rigid routines
Routines can sound intimidating, but this is more about rhythm than rigidity. The best morning practices evolve with you. Start small. Pick one thing that makes you feel a bit more in control, calm, or caffeinated. That’s your routine. Go from there.
The takeaway?
You don’t need a 5 a.m. wake-up or a millionaire mindset. But adding even one intentional habit in the morning can shift how your entire day feels - and how effective you are in it.
Start by making your morning yours. You’re the CEO of your own life, after all.
