The Power of Daily Habits: Small Shifts That Lead to Big Success
If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that success doesn’t come from massive, overnight changes—it comes from the small, consistent actions we take every single day. The way you start your morning, the habits you stick to, and the routines you build all add up to shape the way you show up in your life and career.
For me, there are five habits I’ve been doing almost every single day for decades:
1️⃣ Make my bed
2️⃣ Read something inspiring
3️⃣ Journal
4️⃣ Move my body
5️⃣ Eat breakfast
These may seem simple, but they are intentional. They create a foundation that helps me feel grounded, clear-headed, and ready to take on the day. If you’re looking to be more productive, focused, and in control of your time, these small shifts might just make all the difference.
1. Make Your Bed: Win the Day Before It Even Starts
This might sound basic, but hear me out. There’s something about making your bed that signals to your brain: I’ve accomplished something already. It creates momentum. It’s a small act of discipline that sets the tone for everything else. Admiral William McRaven famously said that making your bed every morning means you’ve already checked off the first task of the day. I couldn’t agree more. Plus, climbing into a neatly made bed at night? It’s a small but meaningful reward.
2. Read Something That Fuels Your Mind
What we consume—whether it’s news, books, or social media—shapes our thoughts and perspective. Every morning, I make it a point to read something inspiring. Sometimes it’s a quote, a chapter from a book, or a short article. Whatever it is, I want to start my day with a mindset of possibility, not limitation. Try swapping mindless scrolling for five minutes of reading something uplifting. It might just shift the way you approach your entire day.
3. Journal: Get Your Thoughts Out of Your Head
Journaling has been a game-changer for me. It helps me process my thoughts, reflect on my goals, and recognize patterns in my life. Some days I write for 30 minutes, other days it’s just a few sentences. But putting pen to paper is a way of clearing mental clutter and making space for clarity. If you’re new to journaling, start small. Write down one thing you’re grateful for or one thing you want to focus on for the day. You don’t have to write a novel—just get your thoughts down.
4. Move Your Body: Energy Creates Energy
I don’t exercise because I have to—I do it because I know how much better I feel when I move. Whether it’s a workout at the gym, a walk outside, or a quick stretch, physical movement isn’t just about staying in shape. It clears my mind, boosts my energy, and strengthens my discipline. And the best part? It doesn’t have to be an intense, hour-long workout. Just get moving. Your future self will thank you.
5. Eat Breakfast: Fuel Your Body for Success
I’ll admit, I’m not a huge breakfast person. But I know that when I start my day with something nutritious, I think more clearly, I have more energy, and I’m just on my game. Food is fuel—simple as that. Even if you’re someone who “forgets” to eat in the morning, consider grabbing a protein smoothie, some fruit, or anything that gives you lasting energy. Your body (and brain) need it.
These habits aren’t about perfection. Some days you won’t get to all of them, and that’s okay. What matters is consistency. When you commit to small, intentional actions every day, they stack up and transform your life.
So, what daily habits help you feel your best? If you’re looking for new ways to boost your focus, confidence, and productivity, start small. Pick one habit and make it yours. And if you’re ready to step up your game in a bigger way, let’s connect—I’d love to help you create the transformation you’re looking for.
If you enjoyed this blog post, here are some other resources you might enjoy:
My book, "Dare To Own You: Taking Your Authenticity and Dreams Into Your Next Chapter": The winner of two Feathered Quill Book awards, and an Book Excellence award, and recommended by Forbes in 2022 as “a teaching memoir”.
My podcast, the "Live Your Best Life with Liz Brunner" podcast: An award-winning and internationally streamed show that highlights powerful stories of re-creation and reinvention from guests who have taken their life experiences, and used that knowledge to create their “next chapters” and live their best lives.
My work as a keynote speaker, executive coach and communication expert. You can read more about more of my services here.
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