Most people will tell you that if their morning goes great, their entire day goes great. And have you noticed that if something requires great focus, energy or creativity, it’s almost always easier to do it well in the morning? It’s no big secret — you’re simply more rested and alert in the morning, making it the most potentially productive time of the day. So capitalize on this daily opportunity, tackling whatever is tougher or requires more mental or physical resources before the afternoon blahs or distractions set in. Take those morning hours by storm, getting a head start on the day and attacking your priorities with passion. Follow this discipline and you’ll discover a healthier, more productive you.

Here are some ways to make the most of your mornings:

Adopt a new “morning mindset.” Your success in life is directly tied to your attitude toward life, so it logically follows that your success for the day is tied to the attitude you adopt for each day. The best way to set yourself up for that success is to start out with the right attitude — one that’s positive and fearless. Make this morning mindset your “Breakfast of Champions,” and you’ll be more likely to accomplish more of your goals and secure more wins both in the morning and throughout the remainder of the day.

Create a daily morning-action plan. At the start of each day, have a “huddle” with yourself and ask: What three things do I want to accomplish by 10 a.m.? Tackle the tough stuff first, putting vital to-dos and responsibilities, such as those relating to people, relationships, and effective communication, on that morning action plan. Anything administrative or less trivial can be slated for the afternoon, so that you’re using the morning for items that require you to be fully engaged and highly present both mentally and emotionally. Challenge yourself to make this type of planning a habit, and you’ll find that you’re able to boost productivity and ensure stronger control of your entire day.

Empower with exercise. Throughout my career, I’ve noticed that when people commit to exercise before starting the workday, they come into the workplace happier, energized and more productive. Their endorphins — the “feel good” hormones — are up. Empowered because they’ve already accomplished something excellent for their body, mind, and spirit, they’re fueled and fired up about managing the rest of their day effectively. Of course, there’s no major workout required to get results. Simply following such routine discipline even for 20 minutes daily can make a difference for the better. Also, I’ve noticed greater success rates when people exercise in the morning versus the afternoon. Distractions and to-dos that build up during the day just make it harder to break away at 2 p.m., exercise, and shower for a second time before returning to work. Make exercise part of your morning routine and you’ll start your day off right, ward off stress, increase total well-being, and get a whole lot more done!

What’s another good habit for maximizing your morning potential?