This is What Jeff Bezos Does in His 1-Hour Rule and Why You Should Adopt It Too

In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship and productivity, few names resonate as profoundly as Jeff Bezos. The founder of Amazon has transformed the way we shop, read, and even think about business. One of the lesser-known but highly impactful habits that Bezos follows is his 1-Hour Rule—a strategy designed to maximise productivity and clarity in his day-to-day activities. So, what is this rule, and how can you incorporate it into your own routine?

What is the 1-Hour Rule?

The 1-Hour Rule is a simple yet powerful strategy: Bezos dedicates the first hour of his day to activities that require mental energy without the distraction of screens. In a 2018 speech at the Economic Club of Washington, he shared his typical morning routine, which includes reading the newspaper, enjoying a cup of coffee, and having breakfast with his family—all without the distraction of phones or screens. His fiancée, Lauren Sanchez, confirmed this practice, stating, “We don’t get on our phones. That’s one of the rules.”

This morning ritual, often referred to as “puttering time,” allows Bezos to prepare mentally for the day ahead. The absence of screen time in these early hours isn’t just a personal preference; it’s rooted in neuroscience. Experts suggest that honoring our natural rhythms—rather than fighting them—can lead to better decision-making and increased productivity throughout the day.

Why is the 1-Hour Rule Effective?

Boosts Productivity: Starting your day without distractions enables you to focus on high-impact tasks. The first hour is often the quietest time, perfect for deep work that requires concentration.

Enhances Mental Clarity: Engaging in activities such as reading, meditating, or exercising helps clear your mind, setting a positive tone for the day. Bezos claims that his phone-free mornings significantly improve his energy levels and decision-making abilities.

Reduces Screen Time Risks: Recent studies indicate that excessive screen time can harm learning, memory, and mental health. By limiting your screen exposure in the morning, you mitigate the risks associated with high screen usage, which can lead to cognitive decline over time.

Encourages Healthy Habits: Dedicating the first hour of your day to activities that nourish your mind and body, such as exercise, meditation, or even cooking a healthy breakfast, reinforces healthier lifestyle choices.

What to Do Instead of Looking at Your Phone

To effectively implement the 1-Hour Rule, consider substituting screen time with these recommended activities:

Exercise: Kickstart your day with physical activity to boost your mood and energy levels.
Read a Book or Newspaper: Stimulate your mind with engaging content that challenges your thinking.
Meditate or Practice Mindfulness: Cultivate a sense of calm and focus to prepare for the day ahead.
Connect with Loved Ones: Call a family member or friend to foster meaningful connections.
Prepare a Healthy Breakfast: Nourish your body with a wholesome meal to fuel your day.
Spend Time Outside: Enjoy the fresh air and natural light, which can improve your mood and enhance cognitive function.
Stanford Lifestyle Medicine experts recommend this type of morning routine, emphasising that it sets a positive tone for the day while supporting brain health and cognitive enhancement.

Jeff Bezos’s 1-Hour Rule is not just a personal preference but a scientifically-backed strategy that many of us could benefit from adopting. By prioritising a phone-free morning routine filled with enriching activities, you can significantly enhance your productivity, clarity, and overall well-being. As Bezos has demonstrated, a thoughtful start to your day can lead to more effective decision-making and a more fulfilling life. So, why not put down your phone tomorrow morning and see how it transforms your day? You might just find that the first hour can indeed shape the rest of your day—and your life.