As the 13th anniversary of this blog approaches, I meet people all the time who ask me when do I have the time to write posts every weekday. And the truth is, I don’t have the time; I make the time.
I couldn’t have been so committed to this little project unless I enjoyed it. When Tim Davis came to me back in 2005, and suggested I launch a blog, I had a hard time getting my head around the idea of writing something that it seemed at the time to be “undiscoverable.”
I concluded that if the blog was to have any chance at success, I’d have to write posts with regularity. That’s what I learned as a radio programmer – the benefits of consistency and reliability is what keeps stations successful over the long haul.
And it’s the same with this blog, a podcast, or anything else you do that is designed to reach people with shared interests.
So, JacoBLOG goes “live” every weekday morning at 6:10am ET. And that means, I had to discipline myself a long time ago that unless I chose to burn the midnight oil, I was going to have to wake up pretty damn early to write it or edit it – especially if I’m on the road in an earlier time zone.
Most mornings, whether I’m in a hotel room or at home, my iPhone wakes me in the 4 a.m. hour. And as I’ve learned over the years, there are many upsides to getting out of bed before dark.
An article in Entrepreneur by Ilya Pozin lists several upsides to early rising that can make your life better. I took his list, and added a few items of my own that will hopefully resonate with media people.
Here are 10 advantages to getting up when most morning teams do:
1. There’s time to work out
This isn’t me, but a lot of people enjoy fitness routines early in the morning. When you wake up early, there’s all kinds of time to get in a workout, while also mentally planning out your day.
2. There’s no traffic
Wherever you’re headed at these ridiculously early hours, chances are good (unless perhaps you’re in L.A. or D.C.), it’ll be a quiet, peaceful drive. Getting to work without commuter anxiety is always a great idea. And yes, it gives you plenty of time to think.
3. There are few distractions
You can clear your email inbox and rest assured you won’t be pinged by any meaningful email in the 5am hour. And with no one else in the office (or the station), it’s amazing how much you can get accomplished in the hours before the rest of the world shows up for work.
4. You’re in good company
Some pretty successful people are early risers. Apple’s Tim Cook gets moving at 3:45am, but that doesn’t beat Fiat Chrysler boss Sergio Marchionne who sets the alarm 15 minutes earlier. The CEOs of Starbucks, General Motors, and Virgin – Howard Schultz, Mary Barra, and Richard Branson – are at their desks during the 6am hour. A common trait among over-achievers is being an early riser. I’ll bet you that’s the case with most of radio’s “40 Most Powerful,” too.
5. You’ll hear the first hour of morning shows
I’m always amazed by the way great morning teams and hosts get going. Do they hit the ground running during their first hour, or are they caffeinating and scrambling? I get treated to a lot of great morning radio, whether I’m at home or on the road – when I should be listening to morning radio anyway.
6. You can be the “mayor” of your local Starbucks
You’ve probably noticed it – there’s that same person who somehow shows up at your neighborhood Starbucks right when they open. You could be that person. Actually, walking into a coffee joint when it opens is a nice moment to converse with the baristas and take in some of the great aromas. It’s the best time of day to spend a few minutes in these places before the morning drive deluge begins.
7. You get more done every day
Because you’ve kicked out all that work before the “official” start of your company’s workday, it gives you the opportunity to tackle more meaningful work as the day rolls on. Most morning people will tell you they’re simply more productive because they’re working at a higher more efficient rate – and with a clear mind. Without others hanging around to distract you, it’s amazing what you can get accomplish.
8. You can eat breakfast
They say it’s the most important meal of the day, but who has time to eat it? You do, if you’re an early riser. And you just might rediscover some of those wonderful foods you may have stopped eating years ago – breakfast cereals, toasted bagels, and my new favorite, oatmeal.
9. You’ll set an example for your staff (or the boss)
Whether you’re a manager or you’re being managed, people around you will take note of your early morning routine. And when they ask you “How do you do it?” just give them a smile and a shrug – and get back to work.
10. You’ll be happier and healthier
That’s what the research says, courtesy of a University of Toronto research study conducted a few years ago. They found that most so-called “morning people” don’t get caught up into staying up (or out) too late, causing what they describe as “social jet lag.” And the older you are, the more likely your early rising habits make you feel good.
Of course, some people simply aren’t made to wake up before the sun shines. And if that’s you, I’m sure you stopped reading this post long ago, rolled over, and went back to sleep. But for those of you who are early-waker-uppers or are thinking about readjusting your schedule, I’ll see you at Starbucks.
And know that you’re well on the way to catching those worms.
Jacobs Media has consistently walked the walk in the digital space, providing insights and guidance through its well-read national Techsurveys.
In 2008, jacapps was launched - a mobile apps company that has designed and built more than 1,300 apps for both the Apple and Android platforms. In 2013, the DASH Conference was created - a mashup of radio and automotive, designed to foster better understanding of the "connected car" and its impact.
Along with providing the creative and intellectual direction for the company, Fred consults many of Jacobs Media's commercial and public radio clients, in addition to media brands looking to thrive in the rapidly changing tech environment.
Fred was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2018.
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Oh yes, Fred, very true about getting an early start. It started for me my mind just kept going. First writing thoughts and ideas down and then I realized, just get to work, regardless of how early. If you’re ready, you’re ready. It’s not about being a hero or showing, it’s about doing your best thinking when your mind and body are in gear. I just go to bead a little earlier to make up for it. Good post. Take control of your day earlier and you will always be ahead of the distractions that are sure to come your way that keep you from getting the important work, and thinking done.
As you point out, a key component is getting to bed at an early hour. Thanks, Dick.
Hi Fred, sorry I called you Paul, although I kept it I the family. Guess I went to be too late.
Dick
You know, I should have just changed your comment. My mom does that all the time. No worries. And I’ll delete this string in a day. Thanks, Dick.
Great, sage advice, Fred! And as stated in the title of a Navy Seal’s book, make your bed first thing in the morning and you’re immediately productive and feeling a sense of reward as you trigger a dopamine release in your brain.
Love that, Ron. Thanks for the comment.
I did mornings for over 2 decades and now that I can sleep in….I still wake up at 3:30am. Every day. Weekends included. But you are right, I get stuff done and am up to speed when most others are still trying to rub the sleep out of their eyes!
It’s hard to return to “normal,” Buck. But glad to hear you’re getting a lot done. Thanks for commenting.
Great blog, Fred. I’m curious—starting work in the 4am hour—when does the work day typically end for you? Shifting earlier to get a head start is a whole different conversation than working 14 hour days– wouldn’t you agree?
I typically work 12-14 hours. And boringly, I’m in bed by 10pm most weeknights. Thanks for the nice note!
12-14 hours–that’s the entrepreneur talking right there! Appreciate all you do.
Beverlee
Back at you, BB. We appreciate the support. Sometimes people I meet on planes remark when they find you own your business, “Wow – that’s cool. You can take vacations anytime you like!” And I respond, “Ha, ha, ha, ha.” Thanks for the note.
As a fellow 4am’er Fred I couldn’t agree more. Especially #7. I feel I accomplish so much more before most people even get to work. That “Spring forward” thing however in a couple of weeks takes a bit of adjustment 🙂
You’re right, I’ve also noticed any spring forward/fall back event throws me off since I joined “The 4am Club.” Thanks for the comment.
Great article Fred. I’m in the broadcast tech space and awake at 3:30am each day to be in the office at 5am – it really does make a difference being up early: zero traffic driving to work, no phones ringing and I can knock off a few hours work before anyone else arrives which is a great way to get ahead! The only downside is in bed by 9:30pm and being awake at around the same time on weekends. Cheers, D.
Sounds very familiar, Darren. It’s not for everyone, but once you get into that groove, it’s a great way to quietly get it done. Thanks for the note.
Just a note to thank you for your hard work and dedication. I’m a relative newbie to the blog but now I never miss it–and often share it. It’s a great service to a great medium, and your effort and sacrifice to make this invaluable resource possible is greatly appreciated.
Much appreciated, Dave. Thanks for reading it.
I have often discussed this on my Westwood One Show STERLING ON SUNDAY. People who get up early always think everyone should get up early. People who stay up late never say “you should stay up later”. Same with Vegans. Meat eaters never say, you should eat more meat. I have NEVER heard the first hour of a morning show but I have often seen the last hour of the Late Late Show. I have often brought the all-night talent fresh pizza and made a friend for life. ALL of the benefits you list are also true for people who get up “late” and stay up “late”
Perhaps. I’ve done it both ways. And I’m more productive waking up excessively early. Would love to hear from others. Thanks for stirring it up, WS.
Hi, Thanks for your top-notch article. I want to add something with you. I think starting your day early improves your concentration. In addition to being able to focus on goals and task lists without being interrupted by family members or coworkers, getting up early means that by the time you get to work or school, you’ve had hours to properly acclimate yourself to the day. You’ll be more alert during peak hours as a result. Am I right?