By: Josh Fulfer
Estimated Read Time: 3 Minutes

Most concrete lifters start their day in reaction mode. The phone’s already buzzing. The crew needs direction. Foam needs ordering. Quotes, callbacks, and kids — all before 8 a.m.

But the lifters who stay steady — and actually enjoy the life they’re building — don’t start from chaos. They lead the day before it leads them.

This isn’t about some rigid “miracle morning” or motivational gimmick. It’s a simple, real-world routine that’s helped me bring more energy, clarity, and presence to both my work and family. And it might give you a few ideas too.

5:30 AM — Beat the Chaos

You don’t need a 4 a.m. wake-up. Just enough space before texts, calls, and job site stress starts pulling on you. Even 15 quiet minutes can shift how you show up.

5:45 AM — Move a Little

Stretching. A few yoga poses. Push-ups. Nothing fancy. But enough to get your blood moving and shake off the fog. It’s not about getting ripped — it’s about showing up strong. A little movement goes a long way when you’re spending the day lifting slabs and solving problems.

6:00 AM — Get Your Head Right

I read a short list of reminders that put me in the right mindset. I commit myself to being the best husband and father I can be today. I think of three things I’m grateful for. I close my eyes, take a few slow breaths, and I say: “Today’s a good day for a good day.”

If I’m short on time, I run through these in my head while I shower. No phone. No scrolling. Just a calm reset to lead the day with intention — not reaction.

6:30 AM — Lead at Home

Breakfast with my wife and kids. No phones. No rushing. Just showing up fully, even for 15 minutes. That simple time together sets the tone for everything else. It reminds me what I’m really building all this for.

7:15 AM — Head Out

Most lifters are on the road or job site by 8 a.m. That first hour is smoother when you’ve already filled your tank — physically, mentally, and emotionally.

You Don’t Need to Overhaul Your Life

This isn’t a to-do list. It’s not something you need to follow step-by-step. It’s just one way to bring more structure and steadiness to a busy life in the trades. Pick one part that speaks to you and try it tomorrow.

Because the guys who stay in the game long term — who build strong businesses, lead good teams, and still have something left for their families — they lead themselves first.

Let’s go. 💪

#leadership #buildsomethingreal #morningroutine #concretelifters #pumpupyourprofits