Rising Early: The New Competitive Edge in the Workplace
In the relentless pursuit of professional success, a growing number of ambitious workers are adopting a new strategy: starting their workday long before the traditional 9-to-5. Known as the “5-to-9,” this approach involves beginning work at 5 a.m. to gain an early edge on productivity and impress employers.
This trend is exemplified by professionals like Melissa O’Blenis, who rises at 4:30 a.m. for prayer and exercise before tackling her job at a digital consulting firm. This early start allows her to complete significant work during distraction-free hours, enabling her to participate in her children’s afternoon activities without guilt. Her dedication has not gone unnoticed, leading to a promotion to a director-level role.
Data supports this early-rising trend. Workflow software maker Asana reports an increase in users logging on between 5 a.m. and 9 a.m., with 12% of work tasks being completed before 9 a.m. in 2023, up from 10% before the pandemic. This shift is not only about getting ahead but also about maintaining a flexible work-life balance.
High-profile early risers, such as Apple’s Tim Cook and General Motors’ Mary Barra, demonstrate that this strategy can lead to significant career advancements. For instance, Matt Kiger’s habit of arriving at the office before 7 a.m. helped him transition from education to a senior vice president role in media sales. His proactive approach ensured he was always ahead, catching the attention of his managers.
However, the 5-to-9 approach isn’t just about personal ambition. It addresses the challenge of managing productivity in a world where the traditional 9-to-5 schedule is increasingly obsolete. Many knowledge workers now prefer flexible hours, with surveys indicating over 90% desire this flexibility. As offices adjust to these new norms, early risers are finding ways to optimize their schedules for both professional and personal gains.
The 5-to-9 strategy is more than just a power move; it’s a practical adaptation to modern work demands. By starting early, professionals can maximize their productivity, stand out to their employers, and maintain a better work-life balance. This approach reflects a broader trend toward flexibility and efficiency in the workplace.