She Strengthens

Unlock the Secrets of the Ultra-Productive: 7 Nighttime Routines to Set You Up for Success

When it comes to achieving greatness, we often focus on the morning routines of high achievers. But what about the evening habits that set them up for success? From unplugging to reading, these 7 nighttime routines can help you unlock your full potential.

Ditch the Screens and Unwind

Arianna Huffington, founder of The Huffington Post, knows a thing or two about burning out. After a near-fatal exhaustion incident, she banned electronics from her bedroom and hasn’t looked back. By unplugging, you can avoid the stress of the email inbox and prepare your body for a restful night’s sleep. Harvard researchers have found that the bright light of smartphones tricks our bodies into thinking it’s daytime, making it harder to fall asleep.

Take a Moonlit Stroll

Joel Gascoigne, CEO of Buffer, swears by nighttime walks to clear his mind and prepare for a productive tomorrow. Leave your iPhone behind and focus on relaxing thoughts to get yourself into a “state of tiredness.”

Prioritize Sleep Hygiene

The National Sleep Foundation has outlined an extensive sleep hygiene routine to ensure extreme slumber. Make sure your bedroom is cool, dark, and quiet, and give yourself at least an hour to unwind before sleep. A comfy bed and a relaxing bedtime routine can work wonders for your productivity.

Get Lost in a Book

Bill Gates reads for one hour every night, no matter what. Besides gaining new knowledge, reading can help reduce stress by 68 percent. Make reading a part of your wind-down routine to set yourself up for success.

Stop Mid-Sentence

Ernest Hemingway’s writing trick is to stop mid-sentence, knowing exactly what will happen next. This technique can help you boost your productivity and avoid writer’s block. End your workday on a high note, and you’ll never scramble for new ideas.

Learn While You Sleep

Josh Waitzkin, author of The Art of Learning, recommends learning new and complicated concepts at the end of a tiring day. Your subconscious processes that fresh information while you’re sleeping, making it easier to recall and apply in the morning.

Reflect and Set Goals

Benjamin Franklin’s nighttime routine included reflecting on the good he’d done that day. Ask yourself the same question: “What good have I done today?” This practice helps you end the day on a high note with positive thoughts and sets new goals to reach for in the morning.