1. Don't see the email. Stay disconnected as much as possible. Either way, no one communicates an emergency by email.
2. When you wake up, don't stress yourself. Tension puts your brain in crisis mode, which puts you in a negative spiral.
3. Use the first 15 minutes well. Great leaders organize their to-do list early, when they can fully focus on it without distractions.
4. Don't answer the phone or online chat. Even short calls can spoil the rest of your day. Get in the habit of working without distractions for long periods of time.
5. Don't watch TV. Television and radio programs (with voice-overs) distract and extend the morning ritual.
6. Don't ignore the family. Gather around the breakfast table for some quality time, which will be harder to find after 5 p.m.
7. Don't do unproductive work. Mechanical tasks can be tempting, but will deliberately put off essential earrings.
8. Make time for your passion. Projects that have a creative side keep you hooked and relaxed throughout the day and help improve your performance at work.
9. Ask yourself: How can I make this day more valuable? What can I do better? What am I grateful for?
10. Establish a routine. Start each day the same way to give your brain the signal to move on to the next goal.
11. Listen to the radio. Music will keep your mind connected to the tasks you do.
12. Plan ahead. Perform a calming ritual to prepare you for the next day. Program the coffee maker, get your clothes ready, and prepare your lunch.
13. Do something important. Start the day with an accomplishment that motivates you (like a travel destination).
14. Turn off all your devices 90 minutes before going to bed. The light of screens, small and large, can promote sleeplessness.
15. Set the time you wake up. Think of 6 a.m. (or earlier). It's what top executives at Twitter, Disney, and PepsiCo do.
16. Get moving. Whether it's an exercise routine or a stretching routine, get your blood flowing. You will feel more motivated.
