Peak Performance: Why 5 AM Isn’t the Magic Hour for Everyone

We’ve all heard it: “If you want to succeed, wake up at 5 AM.” While it may work for some, the truth is that peak performance isn’t tied to an alarm clock. Success isn’t about waking up early—it’s about identifying and using your own optimal productivity windows.

The Truth About Peak Performance Hours

High achievers know that success comes from working smarter, not harder. Forcing yourself into someone else’s schedule can backfire. For example, if you’re a natural night owl who feels most creative at 10 PM, pushing yourself to be “productive” at 5 AM could leave you tired and uninspired.

The real secret? Identifying your peak performance hours—those golden windows where you’re energized, focused, and capable of entering a flow state.

What Is a Flow State? During a flow state:

• Time seems to disappear.
• Work feels both challenging and exciting.
• You’re free from distractions and physical needs.
• Concentration feels effortless.

This concept is something I dive into deeply in my book, The Success Factor. Based on my research with Nobel Prize winners, astronauts, Olympians, and other high achievers, I’ve found that understanding and leveraging your natural rhythms is critical for sustainable success.

For additional insights, check out my Harvard Business Review article, "4 Things High Achievers Do Differently", which explores mindsets like this and more.

Making the Most of Your Peak Hours

Once you’ve identified when you’re at your best:

1. Protect those hours. Block time on your calendar for deep work—projects that require creativity, strategy, and problem-solving.
2. Eliminate distractions. Turn off notifications and let those around you know you’re unavailable (I shut off all notifications on my phone in August 2020 and my productivity and focus has remarkably improved).
3. Leave administrative tasks for low-energy periods. Emails and routine to-dos can wait until you’re outside your peak performance window.

? Action Step for This Week: Take a few days to track your energy levels throughout the day. Notice when you’re most focused and energized, and experiment with scheduling important tasks during these times.

Want to know how to work smarter, not harder? Take my complimentary assessment and receive a personalized report to help you optimize your productivity and success: ruthgotian.com/assessment.

Remember, success isn’t about following the latest trends. It’s about learning what works for you and creating a schedule that aligns with your natural rhythms.

Until next time, Dr. Ruth Gotian P.S. In LinkedIn’s 2025 Workplace Learning Report, they highlighted just five courses—out of more than 24,000—as their "Recommended Courses to Succeed in 2025." I’m honored that my Becoming an Inspiring Mentor course made the list! LinkedIn has unlocked it for free until May 30, 2025, so if you’re looking to level up your mentoring skills, now’s the perfect time to dive in. Take a peek and let me know what you think!