7 Things Star Performers at Work Do Before Noon

Do you struggle trying to find that morning motivation? You're not alone. It can be hard to get yourself moving in the early hours of the day, especially if you lack the excitement necessary to do so in your workplace. But there are easy ways to combat this. (And one comes Venus Williams-recommended!)

Below, we've outlined seven things successful people do to get the most out of their work day well before lunchtime.

1. They set specific goals.

Sabir Peele, the founder of Men’s Style Pro, told Business Insider he splits up his day in two halves in order to increase productivity. 

“I list a maximum of 10 tasks that I want to crush by noon," he said. "To stay interested in what I'm doing, I do the most important tasks at the top of each hour and then handle emails. After I finish two tasks, I do 20 push-ups." 

Splitting your day up like Peele does can help keep things interesting and make the work day seem shorter (push-ups optional). 

2. They take one small break.

In addition to checking things off their work to-do list, successful people take a little break to do something for themselves. Life and work is all about balance (we know you’ve heard that before!), and it’s important to not allow yourself to get burnt out before lunchtime. Take a mini-break: meditate in your office, take a walk around the block, go get your favorite iced coffee, or otherwise treat yourself.

3. They stay positive.

If you are groggy or over-worked, it can be easy to be negative. But instead of focusing on the negative aspects of your life right now, turn your thoughts into positives. When you get frustrated or stressed or feel like you simply don’t have enough time in the day, take a small moment to write down the things about your job you are grateful for. Go back through the list every time you need a little pick-me-up!

4. They do their most dreaded task first.

It can be easy to procrastinate on that dreaded task until the end of your day — which means it will be in your head for as long as you choose to put it off. This can add unnecessary stress and negativity to your day, and you don’t need that. Do your least desirable task as soon as you get in the office, and then the rest of your day will feel like a breeze.

5. They’re always focused on improving.

According to Venus Williams, she is constantly thinking about what she needs to do next in order to keep improving. She told Fast Company, “It’s an addiction, but I always think about how to get better. Everything is geared toward that.” Ask yourself: what's one thing you can do with the intention of "getting better" before noon?

6. They get to work early.

You’ve heard that the early bird gets the worm, and in most cases, it’s true. Successful people get to work earlier and get started on that to-do list sooner. An ultra-productive day doesn't start by hitting snooze and then inevitably arriving late to the office, stressed about the fact that your day is now out of whack. Do what needs to be done to wake up early (including by going to bed earlier if necessary).

7. They complete something off their personal to-do list, too.

If your life feels like it only revolves around work, it can become discouraging. Make a personal to-do list of one or two things you want to accomplish before noon, as well, whether it’s working out, reading the news or listening to a podcast. You’ll feel accomplished and as though you’ve achieved a little personal growth in addition to the professional. So cross it off that list and move on to your workplace goals!