Developing good habits to begin each day helps achieve your full potential. Just as science tells us that every action has an equal and opposite reaction, bad habits oppose good habits, which not only makes your morning routine a disaster but can also prevent career success.

By the time you reach the end of this post, you’ll have learned five ways to make the most of your mornings, which, in turn, helps to achieve success.

Morning routine success begins the night before

When studying, you need to be alert and able to focus on the material. If you’re meeting clients, showing homes or attending a closing (hopefully, lots of them!) you must also be alert, energetic and well-prepared. Mornings will run more smoothly if you take time each evening to prepare for the next day.

From setting your coffee pot timer to laying out your clothes, writing a list of goals for the following day and making sure you get enough sleep, the way you spend your evenings has a significant impact on your morning routine.

Don’t stay in bed until the last minute

If you have a 9 a.m. class or appointment, the last thing you want to do is roll out of bed at 8:30 a.m., then rush out the door. A secret to a helpful morning routine is to awaken at least 15 minutes to a half hour earlier than necessary. Make good use of the time.

Begin each and every day with a drink of water and a healthy breakfast

Sleeping is a restorative process. A lot takes place in your brain and body while you sleep, which is necessary to good health. One thing you’re not doing while you’re sleeping, however, is drinking water. Adequate hydration is a key factor to good health and business success. Never underestimate the value of staying properly hydrated.

Begin each day by drinking at least eight ounces of water. This process jump starts your brain and body, as it literally “wakes up” all of the systems that you need in order to function.

It’s also important to eat healthy food at the start of the day. Whether you choose to do that at the same time you drink your water or after you head outdoors (which you’ll read more about in the next section) is up to you. Just make sure you eat healthy food, such as avocado and egg on toast or yogurt with fresh berries and nuts, as opposed to a donut or sugary, boxed cereals.

Head outdoors for fresh air, morning light and quiet thoughts

Get outdoors and breathe in the fresh, morning air, taking time to clear your thoughts. Take a brisk walk or do some whole-body stretches. Even if you don’t go to the gym or have a home gym available, just making sure you get your body moving and enjoy fresh air and morning light sets the tone for a productive day.

Allow yourself time for distractions in the morning

During the day, distractions can be a real thorn in your side. If you’re supposed to be studying or filing paperwork but are scrolling through social media instead, it’s counterproductive. Why not allow yourself time in the morning to visit your favorite sites, read the news or chat with friends? Once your work day or classes begin, it’ll be easier to avoid distractions.

Developing a consistent, healthy and productive morning routine lays the groundwork for a successful career in real estate.