The Daily Habits That Fuel My Productivity and Creativity as a Founder/Leader

Clara Ma

CEO & Founder of Ask a Chief of Staff, a premier executive search and career development platform dedicated to placing top-tier Chiefs of Staff and empowering professionals in strategic leadership roles.

Clara Ma

“I’ve implemented no-meeting Wednesdays to create uninterrupted space for deep work, strategy, and creative thinking. My former CEO once told me, ‘You have to give time to time.’ No-meeting Wednesdays allow me to do exactly that: step back, reflect, and let ideas marinate before executing. It’s a habit that has not only improved my productivity, but it’s also helped me make more thoughtful, strategic decisions.”

Nikki Innocent

Founder & CEO of Inclusive Leadership Collective, a workplace culture & wellbeing incubator focused on authenticity and belonging for modern leaders.

Rachel Wasserman Ganim

“Practicing releasing my attachment to the outcome has been critical. It’s all about showing up fully present in the moment without the pressure of one specific ‘successful outcome,’ but instead fully trusting yourself in the process and allowing for the necessary information to come forth to lead to the most aligned outcome. As someone who grew up steeped in perfectionist and hustle culture, the repatterning work I’ve done to allow myself permission to let go of the expectation of one perfect outcome has reduced the stress and pressure. Now, I’m able to live more abundantly and creatively than I could’ve imagined, and I weather the unexpected challenges that arise in a way that is not only less stressful and harmful but is also more authentic to my values and energetically sustainable.”

Ana Flores

Founder of #WeAllGrow Latina, the OG Latina community igniting the voices and dreams of Latinas since 2010.

Melanie Rose

“At least once a day, I put on a soul-stirring song, close my eyes, and move however my body wants—no rules, just flow. Dancing gets me out of my head and into my body, which is where my best ideas happen. In just five minutes, I can shake off stress, perfectionism, and creative blocks, making it the perfect reset between calls while working from home. Plus, it reminds me that work—and life—should feel good, not just be productive.”

Bonnie Singleton 

CEO & Data Storyteller of Pollinate Marketing, a data-driven marketing agency that transforms service businesses’ growth potential into reality.

Pollinate Marketing

“My game-changing habit is morning pages—three pages of unfiltered, stream-of-consciousness writing first thing each morning, before I touch any devices or dive into work. Sometimes I get deep insights; other times, I’m wondering why my matcha tastes weird today—and both are equally valid. I immediately follow this with a ‘reality check’ moment—brain dumping all my tasks, cross-referencing with Asana, and time-blocking everything on paper. By dealing with mental clutter first thing in the morning, I create space for genuine creativity and clearer decision-making throughout the day.”

Lakeya Cherry 

CEO & Founder of Lakeya Cherry LLC, a dynamic executive coaching and consulting business empowering leaders and organizations to maximize their potential. 

DFinney Photography

“I make it a priority to avoid back-to-back meetings whenever possible, ensuring I have at least a 30-minute gap to reset, whether that’s taking a walk, grabbing a snack, or simply breathing. These scheduled pauses not only support my well-being, but they also allow me to be fully present and prepared for each client. By prioritizing both restoration and readiness, I show up as my best self—engaged, thoughtful, and able to provide high-impact coaching and consulting.”

Evelyn Sprigg

Co-Founder & CEO of JustUs Skincare, a climate-proof skincare brand made from earth’s most resilient ingredients for earth’s most resilient women. 

Karee Maxson

“Every morning, I organize my to-do list into three categories: critical to achieve today, nice to do, and evergreen. This forces me to focus on the actions that move my business forward and that are critical to operations. Just as important, it moves me away from checking off low-impact items. The feeling of accomplishing critical elements for my business is far more satisfying than a list with tons of little items checked off.”

Cat O’Shaughnessy Coffrin 

Founder & CEO of Captivating Consulting LLC, helping accomplished leaders reclaim their identity and amplify their voice.

Alissa Randall

“I block the first two hours of every workday for myself. I use them to either get outside, exercise, or do thought-intensive writing and planning. These are my most productive hours of the day, so setting them aside to use for myself is a real game-changer. When I start the day with a focus on my energy and meet my mind and body where it’s at, it sets the tone for my entire day and maximizes productivity.” 

Linda Du 

Managing Director at Okta Investment GmbH, a private investment firm based in Berlin, specializing in strategic investments across private markets. 

Tony Sam

“Getting enough sleep has been a critical productivity habit. I use an ENS device for 30 minutes a day before going to bed to improve my quality of sleep and make sure I feel refreshed the next day.When I was a consultant, I wasn’t sleeping enough and had a lot of health problems. Now that I’m sleeping properly, I feel healthy and focused, which improves both my quality of life and my quality of work.”

Caryn Kent Dean 

CEO of Once Upon an RFP, a strategic business proposal services agency that amplifies our clients’ impact by helping them win government and corporate contracts.

Caryn Kent Dean

“I love asking for a hug from each of my loved ones—the positive energy it generates fuels my creativity and productivity. We can get so in the weeds in our businesses and daily lives. A hug is a moment for connection and to remember why we do what we do.”

Hanna McCarthy 

Financial Advisor at Edward Jones, a financial services company that offers brokerage, wealth management, and investment advice.

Carly Petitdemange

“In the morning and mid-day, I write down three words to describe how my day is going and three words to describe how I’m feeling about it. Regular check-ins have helped me refocus during challenging moments and also to celebrate the good ones! They’ve allowed me to prevent small setbacks from impacting my goals and bigger picture while helping me stay aligned with my values and maintain emotional balance throughout each day.”

Grace Nguyen 

Founder & CEO of LOUPN, an inclusive jewelry brand intended to encourage positivity, confidence, and love.

Raul Romo

“I integrated yoga and journaling as an everyday practice to increase my productivity and creativity. As a naturally task-oriented person, I’m always doing or planning something. However, being constantly on the go limited my ability to dream and let my creativity flow. Adding intentional time to slow down and reflect has allowed me to become more grounded, joyful, grateful, and creative, ultimately increasing my productivity.” 

Sydney de Arenas 

CEO of The Hive, a fully managed team ready to elevate your business and your life.

Sydney de Arenas

“My most important habit is one you’ve probably heard before, but that’s because it works: time-blocking. At this stage of my life and career, balancing everything without a clear plan feels impossible, so setting intentional time blocks ensures that I can be both creative and productive. It not only creates dedicated time to get things done, but it also ensures I step away when it’s time to move on. I also use the Eisenhower Matrix to prioritize tasks, making sure I’m investing my time where it actually drives value.” 

Carrie Sporer 

Co-Founder of SWAIR, making time-saving haircare for people who workout.

Kolby Knight

“I often feel overwhelmed in the morning with a long to-do list and busy calendar for the day ahead. Meditating for just five minutes at the beginning of the workday—to music, a guided podcast, or just quiet—helps to center me and quell anxiety. I find that I am more productive and focused after implementing meditation.”

Yewande Faloyin 

CEO & Founder of OTITỌ Leadership & People Development, helping growth-stage companies build strategic leaders, high-performing teams, and a results-driven culture that delivers exceptional value to clients, investors, and the business.

Yewande Faloyin

“I start each morning with an intentional routine that energizes me across four key areas: spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical. This includes a self-check, yoga tailored to my needs that day, prayer and Bible reading for perspective, and a grounding walk in nature. By aligning my morning routine with the energy I want to bring into my day, I set myself for better productivity and fulfillment.”

Amanda Hofman 

Chief Swag Officer & Co-Founder of Go To Market, the anti-boring branded merch and swag experts changing the way the world handles swag by designing sustainable branded merchandise shops that reflect our clients’ brand values.

Julia Guignard

“I use social media often for my work, but for a long time, I was consistently distracted by my feed. I fought with myself to stay on task, but I’d see things all the time that grabbed my attention. Finally, I installed News Feed Eradicator—an extension on Chrome—that hides my feed. I finally feel productive again. Now, when I go on social media to get a specific task done, I can do the task and then exit the app without getting sucked in.”  

Katrina Purcell

Founder & CEO of Katrina Purcell LLC, a fractional COO and consulting firm empowering tech startups to optimize their operations and achieve ambitious growth goals through strategic guidance and tailored solutions.

Portrait Madame 

“Every morning, I set aside 15 minutes to do five minutes of EMDR therapy, followed by a 10-minute expansion meditation. I use an EMDR video from YouTube and keep several meditations to choose from on my phone. The EMDR practice helps to focus and calm my emotions, and the meditation helps expand my mindset, reset my expectations, and even dream of new ideas. Feeling in control over that part of my day empowers me to own the rest of it—even if the unexpected arises.” 

Ariana Rodriguez 

CEO & Founder of CORXLY, an AI-powered project management platform designed for neurodivergent entrepreneurs, freelancers, and teams. 

Jatnna Garcia Photography

“Every day, I do a quick mental check-in to see what kind of productivity support I actually need. I’ve built a toolbox of strategies over the years, and depending on how I’m feeling—energy levels, hormones, sleep, etc.—I pick the tool that makes the most sense for that day. Some days, I need structured lists; other days, I need voice notes or a total schedule shake-up. Giving myself permission to adjust—espeically as a neurodivergent founder—means I get more done without pushing myself into burnout.”

Vanessa Farino 

Founder of Creative CEO, a premier media and events company redefining success beyond the 9-to-5 and empowering ambitious women to build businesses and brands with financial independence, personal fulfillment, and community-driven success.

Andres Calderon

“I prioritize high-protein meals, somatic practices, neuroscience-backed brain reprogramming, eight hours of sleep, and daily time in the sun to recharge my creative energy. These habits fuel my body, regulate my nervous system, and optimize my mindset, ensuring I show up as my sharpest, most creative self—and proving that success is built on a strong foundation of mind-body alignment.”

Meredith Noble 

Chief Grant Writing Unicorn of Learn Grant Writing, helping you learn to write grants and make money doing it.

Apt 5 Creative

“In my current season of life as a young mom working full-time, I’ve found that my daily habits have gone by the wayside, but there’s one weekly habit I will never let slide: my Friday night sabbath, a 24-hour window to be tech-free, plan-free, and to-do list-free. I felt the positive impact of this habit immediately. I am immensely gentle with myself and get the deep rest I need. It reboots my energy for the week and provides a much-needed break from the news cycle.”

Crystal Foote 

Founder of Digital Culture Group, LLC, crafting innovative, data-driven advertising solutions that deeply resonate with dynamic and evolving audiences. 

Donna Permell

“A habit I’ve integrated into my day is starting each morning with 10 minutes of stillness—no phone, no distractions, just breath and intention. It clears mental clutter and creates space for fresh ideas and focused execution. That mental space has allowed me to approach challenges with more intention, lead with greater empathy, and tap into creativity I didn’t know I was missing. It’s a reminder that stillness isn’t wasted time; it’s strategic.”

Stephanie Skryzowski

Founder & CEO of 100 Degrees Consulting, providing CFO and bookkeeping services to nonprofits around the globe.

Juliana McGuirl

“I intentionally build white space into the first few hours of my day, protecting that time for deep thinking and creative work when I’m at my most focused and productive. This allows me to tackle big ideas, solve problems, and set the tone for the rest of the day without distractions. By prioritizing deep work during my peak energy hours, I make faster, more thoughtful decisions and produce higher-quality work. It also helps me stay proactive rather than reactive, creating a sense of control and momentum throughout the day.”

Marissa Pick 

Founder of Marissa Pick Consulting LLC, providing consulting services that focus on digital transformation, content marketing, social media strategy, and personal branding.

Marissa Pick

“I make time for myself every day—a little fresh air, a workout, or a short daydreaming break to let my mind roam without judgement. A change of scenery helps let my mind wander, leading to my best creative ideas. Don’t underestimate the power of breaks! Stepping away from work can actually boost your focus and productivity.”

Ogaga Johnson 

Founder & CEO of Verisult, a career-tech and talent-matching company empowering individuals and businesses to thrive through career advancement and workforce growth.

Stephen NEJ

“I identify the top two or three things that will make each day count, and I block out time on my calendar to do them. By laser-focusing on a couple of  things rather than an endless to-do list, I set myself up for success, eliminate overwhelm, and focus on what’s most important each day.”

Emylee Williams 

Growth Strategist at Creative’s Catalyst, helping women-led service businesses transform their messy spreadsheets into visual dashboards that show exactly where to focus their time and energy for maximum growth.

Beth Barbosa

“A couple times a week, I have to get out of my house and post up at my favorite table at my local coffee shop with my go-to honey cinnamon oat milk latte. Something about pretending everyone there is my coworker and listening to the coffee shop chatter just hits different. My brain snaps into focus mode instead of that endless scroll-and-zone-out situation that sometimes happens at home.”

Kelly Hubbell 

Founder & CEO of Sage Haus, helping busy parents reclaim time by building their village.

Colleen Amelia

“I combine movement to jumpstart my creativity with time blocking for deep work to help me make meaningful progress on what matters most. These habits create a rhythm that optimizes my energy and focus. I think best when I’m in motion and work best in the early morning. This combination helps me generate new ideas, stay sharp throughout the day, and approach my work with more clarity and intention, rather than feeling reactive or scattered.”

Caitlin Ner 

Director of Operations at PsyMed Ventures, a venture fund investing in frontier mental and brain health startups.

Jack Simpson

“Every morning, I start my day by checking in on the How We Feel app, naming my emotions without judgment. After that, I record a 30- to 60-second voice memo reflecting on my thoughts, feelings, and body at that moment. Sometimes, I notice patterns in how certain emotions fuel my creativity and productivity or block them. Other times, just saying something out loud helps me get unstuck. It’s like emotional composting—turning whatever I’m feeling into something fertile for the day ahead.”

Brittany Woitas 

Founder & Managing Principal of Kōvly Studio, the brand and marketing agency for experience-driven brands.

Brittany Woitas

“Each morning, I time block 30 minutes before I start my work day to meditate and journal, focusing on expansion and living my most authentic life. I used to dive into my workday with a sense of urgency and anxiety. Now, my days start with a sense of calm intention, allowing me to not only be more productive and think more creatively but also to empower and lead my team more effectively.”

Catalina Parker 

Co-Founder of Relatable Nonprofit, helping nonprofit professionals launch consulting careers.

Maxson Media

“I start my day with a workout. Since cortisol is highest in the morning, exercise helps me release stress, get out of my head, and just be in my body. By the time I drop my kids off at school and sit down at my desk, I feel energized and ready to dive into work.”

Kalyn Romaine 

Founder & CEO of Forward Collective Group, a global management advisory and consulting firm partnering with leaders to build companies people love to work for and buy from. 

RaQuita Weathers (Flarehaus Creative Agency)

“I make time to dream. My work requires a ton of critical thinking, and free-dreaming time helps me honor my intuition. I need my intuition as much as my intellect to be effective in my work. When I make time for both each day, it helps me show up authentically with my whole self instead of little pieces.”

Lauren Fleming

CEO & Founder of Hem Support Wear, creating thoughtfully designed pelvic floor support garments that empower women at every stage of life to feel supported, confident, and in control of their wellness journey.

Katie Baker

“Every Friday afternoon, I set aside time to plan my work for the upcoming week. Taking the time to plan each week helps me stay organized and intentional rather than reactive. Instead of wasting time deciding what to focus on each day—including when to fit in things like workouts—I start each morning with clarity and direction, giving me the mental space to be more creative.”

Molly Hurford

Founder of Strong Girl Publishing, making athletically-oriented books and content for middle grade and young adult girls, written by young women athletes. 

Jody Wilson

“Biking or running on a near-daily basis isn’t just for my physical health—I find it’s essential for mental clarity, as well. The biggest unlocks for plot points or work problems tend to come to me on the run or in the shower afterwards while the endorphins are still high, which is why my shower features a scuba diver’s writing slate so I can capture those ideas!” 

Domonique Worship 

CEO & Founder of Domonique Worship Coaching & Consulting, specializing in empowering leaders and organizations to unlock their full potential through transformative coaching, training, and strategic advisory rooted in alignment, purpose, and impact.

Soflo Inspire, Inc.

“Clarity breaks—intentional pauses to step away from the noise, reflect, and reset—are a key habit in my days. These moments allow me to check in with myself, refine my focus, and approach challenges with a clearer mind. They’ve helped me avoid burnout, unlock creativity, and ensure that the work I do is deeply aligned with my purpose and the impact I want to create.”

Caitlin Daley 

Founder & CEO of Face The Tiger, a bold, boutique consultancy, helping entrepreneurial women to live fully as their true selves—unapologetically and with unwavering courage.

Scott Lindenbaum

“I have a daily gratitude practice where I write down five things I’m grateful for every morning and every night before bed. This has been hugely empowering. I’m able to see all the good things that come to me and what I already have. The more good I see in the world, the more clear and confident I am in building my vision for my life and business.” 

Eileen Smith 

Diplomat-Turned-Public-Speaking-Coach of Spokesmith, helping business executives and policy experts show up at their best in speeches, board meetings, panels, presentations, business pitches, and more.

Eileen Smith

“I make what my friend calls ‘an elaborate breakfast’ of toast, avocado, cottage cheese, smoked salmon, fruit, and spinach—with a large mug of green tea. Taking the time to sit down and eat a proper breakfast is a luxury. It gives me time to read the news, focus on the day ahead, and make a game plan, providing me the fuel to ensure my clients have the best version of me.”

KK Hart 

CEO (Chief emPOWERment Officer) of Ghost Democracy, a complete collection of better-for-you, exceptionally clean(er) than clean, skincare products that democratize our minimalist, multi-tasking, measurably effective (and also vegan, cruelty-free) holistic self care for all skin types, tones, and textures!

Ghost Democracy

“Adopting my children while managing multiple investments and business acquisitions taught me the ‘less is more’ principle, which revolutionized both my personal life and business strategy. My biggest productivity hack was a multi-year social media break, which significantly enhanced my focus and creativity—and my bottom line. It’s worth the effort to utilize our productivity and creativity in authentic ways.”

Kellie Okonek 

Founder & CEO of IronLady Consulting, helping leaders and teams unlock hidden capacity, navigate uncertainty, and build cultures where people thrive.

Ralph Kristopher

“Moving outside every day is the single most effective way I reset, gain clarity, and tap into creativity. Exposure to natural light regulates my circadian rhythm, boosts my mood, and enhances overall well-being, making me more energized and focused. When I’m in motion—especially in nature—my brain shifts from problem-solving mode to expansive thinking, allowing fresh ideas and insights to emerge. It’s not just about fitness; it’s about accessing a deeper state of presence and flow, where my best decisions and most innovative strategies come to life.”

Afiya Shani Williams 

Founder of WildFiya, curating joyful and restorative events and experiences for Black and brown womxn to play, learn, and be well. 

Fred Salyers 

“An avid list maker, I’ve started activating the Pomodoro Method into my time blocks for increased productivity. For my creativity, I look for ways to turn life into a game, finding or creating little sparks of joy in the day-to-day experience like via cloud reading or adult coloring books. Intentionally bringing the element of play helps in stress relief, not taking life too seriously in the moments that feel unknown, and creating a different perspective on navigating projects and challenges.”

Anouck Gotlib 

CEO of Belgian Boys, creating whole ingredient breakfast foods with a European twist so families can prep less, smile more, and indulge better.

Ursula Prinz

“It’s been three years since I started kicking off each week with mindfulness, and it has truly changed my life and improved my mental health. I also meet with my coach weekly, creating dedicated time to step back, reflect, and reset. It’s my way of practicing mindfulness in a structured way. In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, it’s easy to get caught up in the day to day, but this practice keeps me grounded, focused, and open to new ideas.”

Allie Mirosevic 

Life Coach & Founder of Bliss’d Co, helping women cultivate joy, clarity, and alignment through intentional journaling, personal growth, and manifestation.

Allie Mirosevic

“A recent habit I’ve adopted is going on tech-free walks—and I love them. I used to think every moment had to be productive, filling my walks with podcasts, meditations, or calls with friends and family. Now, I let nature be my background noise and use this time for self-reflection, brainstorming, creativity, and just being. Some of my best ideas and most creative bursts have come from these walks!”

Michal Levison

Founder & Positive Psychology Advisor of Seasoned Moments, shifting corporate culture using positive psychology and shared meals as the vehicles to enhance productivity, innovation, collaboration, and well-being.

Michal Levison

“Eating lunch with another person (or multiple people) regularly has been such a valuable habit. Taking a break from my work, even for 15-20 minutes, allows my brain to rest, recharge, refuel. Chatting about non-work matters helps me shift into creativity mode, and when I go back to my work, I find solutions much more easily than if I stare at a problem for hours at a time.” 

Julie Zhu  

Chief Marketing Strategist of Julie Zhu LLC, an award-winning marketing and personal branding strategist based in NYC.

Julie Zhu

“I like color-batching my tasks in Google Calendar. The visual system helps me group similar work together so I’m not constantly switching gears throughout the day; seeing purple blocks for writing time and blue for meetings helps my brain quickly shift into the right mindset for each task. It’s been a game-changer for keeping my creative energy flowing while staying on top of everything—and also has unexpectedly boosted my creativity and happiness.”