Does Waking Up at 4 AM Really Lead to Success? Ghazal Alagh Shares Her Experience

Many people believe that waking up early is the secret to success. From Benjamin Franklin’s famous quote to modern productivity experts who swear by a 4 AM wake-up, the idea is everywhere. But is it really that simple?

Ghazal Alagh, co-founder of Mamaearth, has a different take. In a LinkedIn post, she shared how forcing herself into a strict early morning routine led to burnout instead of success.

The Struggle with the 4 AM Routine

Alagh once believed that waking up at 4 AM would make her more productive. However, it had the opposite effect—it left her exhausted, irritable, and even caused health issues. She realized that sacrificing sleep was harming her more than helping.

“The 4 AM routine nearly pushed me to burnout. I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone, especially women,” she wrote. “Instead of boosting my productivity, it caused sleep deprivation and negatively affected my health.”

Why Sleep Matters

Through this experience, Alagh learned that sleep is essential for both mental and physical health. She now ensures she gets 7-9 hours of rest, focusing on working smarter rather than following a strict schedule.

“I’ve found that sleep is non-negotiable. Now, I wake up early, but in a way that works for me. I follow my own ‘6 to 9 before 9 to 6’ routine, prioritizing what matters without burning out,” she explained.

A Smarter Morning Routine

Instead of waking up at 4 AM, Alagh has created a schedule that suits her energy levels. Her routine includes:
✔️ Exercise – A workout, yoga, or a brisk walk to start the day positively.
✔️ Mindset Reset – Taking time for self-reflection and positive thinking.
✔️ Skill-Building – Reading, learning, or working on important tasks.
✔️ Family Time – Spending time with her children before work.

She believes productivity isn’t about waking up at a specific time but about managing time effectively.

How People Reacted

Alagh’s post sparked discussions online. Many agreed, saying the 4 AM rule isn’t for everyone.

💬 “Finally, someone said it! Waking up at 4 AM doesn’t work for everyone.”
💬 “I tried it and just felt exhausted all day.”
💬 “Success isn’t about sleep deprivation; it’s about working smarter.”

However, some still supported the 4 AM routine, saying it worked for them.

The Takeaway? Find What Works for You

As the saying goes, “The early bird catches the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese.” Waking up early might help some people, but it’s not the only way to succeed. The key is finding a routine that fits your lifestyle and keeps you healthy.