1. Take Control of Stress By Getting Up Earlier

This lifetime isn’t for the weak-hearted. Stress is around every corner and every turn, and the world gets crazier daily. But tactical athletes don’t let stress get to them or send them crying back to their mommies–they find ways around it and use that stress to help them perform. Stress will help you achieve your goals and accomplish what needs to be done. Real Combat Iron tactical veterans know that to avoid stress, they need to take control.

When you wake up early, you have complete control of your day. Our hero veterans and tactical athletes train early in the morning, giving them the strength they need to keep moving forward. Starting your day earlier with the mindset of giving no fucks, taking no shit, and getting that check for more tatts will set you up for success–and you can purchase a flag that says just that on our website to hang in your home. That way, you can wake up every morning and be reminded of who you are.

2. Take Back Your Time.

If you want to be efficient with your time, you need to pick a routine and have the discipline to stick to it. Few people in this world become early birds because it just “fits” them naturally. Our American heroes had no choice, either. Waking up early is the most efficient way to get shit done for tactical athletes, and it’s also the most efficient way to take back your time.

Start your day by owning it. It doesn’t matter if you start your day with 4 cups of coffee or have to drag yourself out of the house–getting into the gym first thing in the morning is what will teach you proper discipline. Checking off your first workout will boost all your brain chemicals and help you feel swole and accomplished for the rest of the day. The day is yours, so seize it.

If you’re struggling to make it through the day after an earlier workout, take a look at our Combat Iron coffee mugs. It’ll show everyone at the office what you’re about–and though it’s badass, I doubt anyone would even attempt to “borrow” it!

4. Keeps you active for the rest of the day.

The grind never stops–especially if you become a morning person.

The body's circadian rhythm is controlled by two hormones: cortisol and melatonin. Melatonin is produced by the pineal gland and helps you fall asleep at night. On the other hand, cortisol is released in response to stress. It stimulates your adrenal glands to produce energy for immediate use.

The best way to keep cortisol levels low so you can wake up refreshed every day? Get out into the sun early! Exposure to sunlight triggers the release of serotonin (a neurotransmitter responsible for mood regulation) which helps regulate melatonin production throughout the day so that both hormones remain balanced throughout every hour of daylight. Every time you grumble or hit snooze, remember that you’re worth more than that–and you can grab this keychain we made to remind yourself.