Discipline: why I've been getting up at five since I was 20

Since I was 20 I've done sport six days a week. Only on Sundays do I rest my body. I get up at five in the morning, practise gratitude, pray and train for an hour. I've done it since my university years in Boston and never stopped.

Why five

It isn't about productivity. It's the first promise of the day that I keep to myself. That hour proves to me, every day, that I'm disciplined with myself. And when you start the day by keeping your word to yourself, the rest of your commitments are easier to hold.

Discipline isn't born from motivation

Motivation goes up and down. Discipline is built with conviction, over time. I didn't start getting up at five without effort: it was a decision I repeated until it became part of who I am.

The same goes for how I eat: healthily during the week, treats at the weekend, and not much sugar. It isn't a diet, it's a structure.

Structure to reach goals

I believe punctuality, formality, structure and discipline are the best tools for reaching a goal. When I commit to something, I really commit. I'm not afraid of work because I've never worked on something I wasn't passionate about.

What balances it

Discipline isn't rigidity. I'm a present father, I like being at my children's activities, playing golf, connecting with nature and grounding. I also believe in looking after mental health: therapy with psychologists and coaches has helped me overcome challenges you can't see from the outside.

It all starts the same way: at five, with gratitude.