Jeff Bezos says the hour rule makes him smarter, and neuroscience has proven him right
Prominent entrepreneurs often share their habits to illustrate how they balance their professional routine with everyday life. So, Tim Cook from Apple or Indra Nooyi from Pepsi boast about their intense morning activities, but Jeff Bezos surprised with something unexpected. The Amazon founder is known for devoting the first hours of his day to unexpected activities.
In 2018, during a speech at the Economic Club of Washington, Bezos explained his morning routine. This includes reading the newspaper, drinking coffee and having breakfast with the family. But there is a basic rule: don’t use the phone. In a recent interview with People, his fiancée Lauren Sanchez confirmed that they are still We strive to make mornings free from screens.
Why did Bezos ban the use of screens during the first hour of the day? It may just be personal preference, but science is starting to back up your choice. Experts recommend that daily routines adapt to our energy rhythms, rather than contradict them. Bezos claims that this practice not only improves his quality of life, but also his ability to make decisions throughout the day.
Neuroscience seems to agree. Recent research suggests that cutting out screens in the morning may be the key to a smarter, healthier day.
Screen effects
Screens are an integral part of our modern lives and it is easy to be tempted to overuse them. According to an article from the Stanford Lifestyle Medicine Program, prolonged use of screens can negatively impact our memory, mental health, and even increase the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia. Another study shows that those who watch TV five or more hours a day have a higher risk of developing brain diseases.
The damage is not limited to just the brain. Spending too much time in front of a screen is also linked to vision problems, sleep disturbances and back pain. It seems clear that excessive use of screens is harmful to our bodies and minds.
Alternatives to screens
This is Bezos’s rule of the times. Avoid using screens during the first hour of the day. Instead, she suggests engaging in activities that nourish the brain, such as:
- Do exercises
- Call a friend or family member
- Prepare a healthy breakfast
- Meditate
- Listen to music
- Make a gratitude list
- read a book
- Spend time outdoors and enjoy the natural morning light.
Maintaining a mindful morning routine can improve mood and energy throughout the day, and improve brain and cognitive health. This approach, which Bezos has been practicing for many years, is consistent with the practices recommended by modern neuroscience.
So, starting your day without screens could be the key to a healthier brain and a more productive life.