My Business Was Stuck: Exhausted & Unproductive

My business, a small fashion design outfit based in Lagos, was in a rut. Deadlines were constantly missed, quality was slipping, and I, the owner, was perpetually running on fumes. I felt like I was constantly putting out fires, responding to urgent requests from tailors, managing fabric deliveries that were always late, and placating increasingly frustrated customers. The vibrant creativity I once felt was replaced with a gnawing sense of overwhelm. The Nigerian market is incredibly competitive, and I knew I was losing ground to competitors who seemed to effortlessly manage their operations. I was working long hours, often until late into the night, but I felt like I was achieving less and less. The business, initially a source of passion and pride, had become a source of immense stress. I even started dreading going to the workshop each day, a feeling I knew couldn’t continue if I wanted the business to survive. The constant hustle and bustle of Lagos life seemed to amplify the pressure, making it even harder to find the clarity and focus needed to steer the business back on course. I knew something drastic had to change, and quickly.

Hitting Reset: I Needed a New Approach, Fast

The turning point came after a particularly disastrous week filled with late deliveries and customer complaints. I realized I was so caught up in the day-to-day chaos that I wasn’t actually leading the business anymore; I was simply reacting to it. I needed to step back, re-evaluate my priorities, and implement a system that would allow me to work smarter, not harder. I started researching productivity strategies, reading articles and listening to podcasts about time management and effective leadership. I knew I couldn’t just implement any generic advice; it needed to be tailored to the specific challenges of running a business in Nigeria. This meant considering factors like unreliable infrastructure, the constant need to manage multiple relationships (suppliers, tailors, customers), and the cultural emphasis on personal connections. I considered outsourcing some tasks, but the cost felt prohibitive at that stage. Instead, I decided to focus on optimizing my own productivity, believing that if I could improve my own efficiency, I could then trickle down those benefits to the rest of the team. The goal was to create a sustainable system that would allow me to reclaim control of my business and, more importantly, my life. I understood that if I didn’t, the business would be at risk.

Experimenting with Mornings: A Tiny Shift Began

My research led me to the concept of a “morning routine.” Initially, I was skeptical. As a typical Nigerian entrepreneur, I was used to the “hustle” mentality – working long hours and sacrificing personal time. The idea of deliberately slowing down and focusing on myself in the morning seemed counterintuitive. However, the evidence was compelling. Studies consistently show that people who establish a consistent morning routine experience increased productivity, reduced stress, and improved overall well-being. A 2018 study published in the “Journal of Applied Psychology” found that individuals with structured morning routines were significantly more likely to report higher levels of job satisfaction and performance. I decided to experiment, starting with small changes. I began by simply setting my alarm 30 minutes earlier and using that time to read something inspirational. I started noticing a slight shift in my mood and energy levels throughout the day. This small victory encouraged me to explore further, gradually adding more elements to my morning routine. I began to see my mornings as a precious opportunity to set the tone for the day, rather than a chaotic rush to get to work.

5 AM Wake-Up Call: Initially, I Dreaded It All

The biggest and most challenging change was shifting my wake-up time to 5 AM. As someone who typically stayed up late working, the thought of waking up that early filled me with dread. The first few days were brutal. I felt tired, groggy, and completely unmotivated. Hitting the snooze button became a daily temptation. However, I was determined to stick with it. I used a few strategies to make the transition easier. First, I started going to bed earlier, gradually shifting my sleep schedule. I knew getting enough sleep was crucial for maintaining energy levels throughout the day. Second, I used a “sunrise alarm clock” that gradually brightened the room before my alarm went off, simulating a natural sunrise and making it easier to wake up. Third, I had a clear plan for what I would do with those early morning hours, which helped me feel more motivated to get out of bed. I knew if I could just push through the initial discomfort, the benefits would eventually outweigh the challenges. And, after a week or two, something remarkable happened: I started waking up before my alarm.

The Winning Formula: Meditation, Then Focused Work

After several weeks of experimentation, I finally landed on a morning routine that worked for me. It consisted of three key elements: meditation, focused work, and light exercise. First, I spend 15 minutes meditating using the Headspace app. This helps me quiet my mind, reduce stress, and cultivate a sense of calm before the day begins. In Nigeria, where the pace of life can be incredibly hectic, taking time for stillness and reflection is especially important. Next, I dedicate one to two hours to focused work on my most important task of the day, typically designing new pieces or planning marketing strategies. I use the Pomodoro Technique, working in 25-minute intervals with short breaks in between, to maintain focus and prevent burnout. This allows me to make significant progress on my most critical projects before the distractions of the day begin. Finally, I spend 30 minutes doing light exercise, such as yoga or a brisk walk. This helps me boost my energy levels and improve my mood. I often listen to inspiring podcasts or audiobooks during my walk, which keeps me motivated and informed.

Results Speak Volumes: Productivity Levels Skyrocketed

The impact of my new morning routine on my business was dramatic. My productivity levels skyrocketed. I was able to accomplish more in those early morning hours than I used to accomplish in an entire day. I was more focused, more creative, and less reactive. I was also better equipped to handle the inevitable challenges that arose throughout the day. For example, fabric deliveries that were previously a source of frustration became manageable with a clear plan and a calm demeanor. Customer complaints were handled with empathy and efficiency. I was also able to delegate tasks more effectively, empowering my team to take ownership and contribute more meaningfully. Within a few months, sales increased by 25%, and customer satisfaction ratings improved significantly. I was also able to launch a new product line, something I had been putting off for months due to lack of time and energy. My business transformed from a chaotic mess into a well-oiled machine.

Beyond the Numbers: A Happier, More Balanced Me

The benefits of my morning routine extended far beyond the business. I felt happier, more balanced, and more in control of my life. The constant stress and anxiety that had been plaguing me began to dissipate. I had more energy to spend with my family and friends. I also had more time to pursue hobbies and interests that I had previously neglected. I started taking Yoruba language classes and joined a local book club. I realized that taking care of myself was not selfish, but essential for my success as an entrepreneur. A 2016 study by the World Health Organization found that depression and anxiety disorders cost the global economy $1 trillion each year in lost productivity. By prioritizing my mental and physical well-being, I was not only improving my own life but also contributing to a more productive and healthy society. In a culture that often glorifies overwork and sacrifice, I learned the importance of self-care and balance.

My Morning Routine: Still Evolving, Always Improving

My morning routine is not set in stone. It’s a constantly evolving process, adapting to my changing needs and priorities. Some days, I might need more time for meditation; other days, I might need more time for focused work. The key is to be flexible and listen to my body. I regularly review my routine, evaluating what’s working and what’s not. I also continue to experiment with new techniques and strategies. For example, I recently started incorporating gratitude journaling into my routine, writing down three things I’m grateful for each morning. This helps me cultivate a positive mindset and appreciate the good things in my life. I also use apps like Trello to organize my tasks and manage my time effectively. The most important lesson I’ve learned is that consistency is key. Even on days when I don’t feel like it, I make an effort to stick to my routine as much as possible. It’s an investment in myself and my business that pays dividends every single day. And, as a Nigerian entrepreneur, I know that adaptability and continuous improvement are essential for success in a rapidly changing world.