5 Simple Productivity Tricks Anyone Can Use

The surprising answer: plenty of people. Many famous and successful individuals swear by early mornings. Apple CEO Tim Cook, for instance, starts his day at 3:45 a.m. But if you’re like me and don’t live the life of a billionaire executive, your schedule might not allow for an early bedtime or the luxury of a crack-of-dawn routine.

The good news? The morning ritual that really matters isn’t tied to the clock—it’s about how you begin your workday. Whether you’re stepping into an office or logging into your laptop, those first moments can set the tone for everything that follows.

Unfortunately, the start of a typical workday often feels like a battlefield. Emails demand attention, unexpected fires need putting out, and co-workers clamor for your help (usually ASAP). It’s not even 9 a.m., and you’re already longing for a lunch break.

Sound familiar? You’re not alone. Through years of observation and helping others optimize their productivity, I’ve developed a morning ritual that can help you regain control and start your day on the right foot. Here are the key steps:

Use your opening ritual to get organized and set intentions for the day. Review your calendar, update your to-do list, identify top priorities, clear your workspace, or even stretch. Steer clear of activities that drain your energy or distract others.

Your workday doesn’t have to feel chaotic right out of the gate. By following a structured and intentional morning ritual, you can take control of your time, prioritize what matters most, and ease into your day feeling calm and focused.

It’s not about waking up at 4 a.m. like Tim Cook—it’s about creating habits that work for you. Start small, stay consistent, and watch how even small changes can set the stage for big wins. So, what’s your opening ritual going to look like tomorrow?