The 5 A.M. Club: This Is How I Managed to Get Up at 5 A.M. Every Day—and How It Changed My Life
Getting up at 5 a.m. every day? For a long time, the author considered the “5 a.m. club” to be empty talk from productivity gurus. Until she tried it herself…
Back in 2012, I read in this very magazine that Michelle Obama wakes up at 4:30 a.m. every morning to work out with her husband, Barack Obama. I had two responses: “couple goals” and “ew.” The “ew” was directed toward the idea that someone, of their own free will, would decide to wake up at 4:30 a.m. every day.
Mar 5, 2025, 07:46 IST
But it turns out that the former first lady is not the only successful person to subscribe to this morning routine. In an interview with Kourtney Kardashian for Poosh earlier this year, momager Kris Jenner (arguably the first lady of reality TV) revealed that she too wakes up at 4:30 a.m., has had a coffee by 5, checks her emails at 5:30, and then fits in a workout before showering and embarking on a full hair and makeup routine ahead of meetings at 9:30. Jennifer Aniston and Goop queen Gwyneth Paltrow also subscribe to this early-wake-up philosophy, as does Richard Branson (though I would definitely be waking up earlier if I lived on a private island in the Caribbean).
Waking up at 5 a.m. consistently can be life-changing. Many successful people swear by early rising, and after committing to it, you may notice several positive changes in your life. Here’s how it can transform you:
1. Increased Productivity
Waking up early gives you uninterrupted quiet hours to focus on important tasks. Whether it’s deep work, planning your day, or personal projects, the early hours provide a head start before the world wakes up.
2. Better Mental Clarity and Focus
Morning hours are free from distractions, allowing for better concentration. With fewer emails, calls, or messages coming in, you can channel your energy into high-priority tasks without interruptions.
3. Improved Physical and Mental Health
Having extra time in the morning lets you establish a routine for exercise, meditation, or journaling. This not only improves physical health but also enhances mental well-being, reducing stress and increasing mindfulness.
4. More Time for Personal Growth
Reading, learning a new skill, or simply reflecting on your goals becomes easier when you have those extra morning hours. Many high achievers use early mornings for self-improvement.
5. Enhanced Sleep Quality
Surprisingly, waking up early can improve your sleep. Following a disciplined sleep schedule helps regulate your body’s internal clock, leading to deeper, more restorative sleep.
6. Greater Sense of Control and Discipline
Starting your day early creates a sense of accomplishment. You feel in charge of your time, which boosts confidence and discipline, affecting all areas of your life.
Tips for Making It Work:
Sleep Early: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep.
Prepare the Night Before: Plan your morning tasks to eliminate decision fatigue.
Avoid Screens Before Bed: Reduce blue light exposure to fall asleep faster.
Have a Morning Routine: Incorporate activities that energize and motivate you.
Final Thoughts
Waking up at 5 a.m. isn’t just about getting up early—it’s about what you do with that time. It creates opportunities for growth, productivity, and a more fulfilling lifestyle. Would you give it a try?