When I was a student at both staff college and war college, we were very privileged to hear from a number of successful senior leaders. One of the common threads in all their talks on leadership was how they were (generally) early risers. Getting up at a regular hour each day, and getting a good start helps a person be prepared for the day. I think a balanced life begins in the morning…a good meal, a quick scan of the news, some exercise, and a little spiritual nourishment helps me start in the right “place.” The side benefit is that I get to enjoy the beauty of the morning…this morning with some coffee and a squirrel!