Prioritize Sleep

This aspect begins long before lunch, but it’s impossible to overemphasize the value of adequate sleep. I notice a stark difference when I’ve had a full eight hours; anything less leads to a noticeable decline in my productivity, especially in the afternoon. I won’t dictate how much sleep you should aim for—you already know what works for you. However, it’s essential to address any sleep issues you may have.

For me, insomnia can be a challenge due to my constantly active mind. Ensuring I have a productive morning hinges on effectively managing my sleep.

Create a To-Do List

After waking, take a moment to jot down a list of tasks. There are various ways to do this—using apps like Evernote or Asana, or simply writing in a traditional notebook. I prefer the tactile feel of a planner for my daily lists. Each morning, I outline the tasks I aim to complete that day, aligning them with my goals. It’s perfectly fine if you don’t complete everything; the act of writing it down keeps you accountable.

Once your list is ready, select a few items to focus on before lunch. I typically choose five tasks, and when I'm particularly organized, I write them on sticky notes and place them on my “5 Before Lunch” board.

Engage with Stories

Incorporating stories into your morning can foster creativity. Whether it’s listening to a podcast while commuting, reading a book, or chatting with the barista, find a way to connect with narratives before lunch. While it may not seem like traditional productivity advice, consuming stories can spark your imagination and fuel your creativity.

Plan Ahead for Dinner

To alleviate stress, tackle dinner plans before lunchtime. By deciding what you’ll have for dinner early on, you can avoid the last-minute scramble in the kitchen. Whether it’s a simple meal or takeout, make it a conscious choice. Dedicate a few minutes to prep—chop vegetables or set the slow cooker. If you save time during the day, you could use it to write a page of your book, making substantial progress over time.

Take Bold Action

Don’t let daily tasks overshadow your most significant goals—the ones that genuinely scare you. Each morning, take a moment to focus on that daunting objective. Ignore the inner voice that says, "You can’t prioritize that right now." Instead, commit to taking at least one step toward that goal before lunch. By consistently doing this, you’ll be surprised at the impact it can have.

Shaunta Grimes is a writer and educator, currently residing in Northwestern PA with her husband and three incredible children. She’s active on Instagram @ninjawritershop and has authored several books, including Viral Nation and Rebel Nation. For insights and updates, subscribe to her Substack newsletter or follow her on TikTok.