Happy New Year my friends, colleagues and clients!

As we step into 2025, I hope you’re feeling recharged, inspired, and ready to tackle the opportunities ahead. Personally, I’m bursting with energy and excitement for what this year holds, both for SMSFAI and for our amazing clients.

But let’s be honest - jumping back into work after the holidays isn’t always easy. For some, the thought of alarms, emails, and endless to-do lists can feel overwhelming. If that’s you, know you’re not alone. I’ve been there, and my thoughts are with you.

However, if you’re ready to hit the ground running (or at least walking), I want to share a little secret that’s been my cornerstone for success: the 4am Club.

How the 4am Club Started

Last year, when discussing my morning routine with someone - they mentioned the 5am Club, a concept from a book about harnessing the power of early mornings for productivity and personal growth. Intrigued, I picked it up over the holiday break.

Here’s the kicker - I’ve been unofficially practicing the 5am Club for almost 30 years without even realising it!

Naturally, though, when hearing of a 5am Club, I couldn’t resist taking it up a notch. So, in true Olivia fashion, I decided to launch my very own 4am Club.

Yes, it’s early. And yes, it’s life - changing. Those peaceful, uninterrupted hours before the world wakes up allow me to think clearly, plan my day, and focus on what matters most - whether that’s strategising for SMSFAI, running through my 'to-do' list combined with a power hour of exercise walking along the beach with my dog Harry before the kids stumble out of bed.

A Simple Tip to Transform Your Mornings

I get it - waking up at 4am (or even 5am) might not sound appealing. But trust me, it’s worth it. I like to act as though 4am is the new 6am. If you’re curious to give it a go, here’s the best advice I can offer:

Put your alarm clock or phone as far away from your bed as possible. By the time you’ve walked across the room to turn off that annoying buzz, you’re already up. And once you’re up, you might as well make the most of it.

A New Year, a Fresh Start

As we embark on another year, I encourage you to reflect on what energies and inspires you. Whether it’s early mornings, setting bold goals, or simply finding joy in the small wins, 2025 is a blank slate waiting for you to create something amazing.

At SMSFAI, we’re here to make your SMSF journey smoother, smarter, and more efficient - so you can focus on what truly matters to you.

Here’s to a sensational year ahead, filled with growth, success, and maybe even a little extra sleep (after all, not everyone has to join the 4am Club!).

Cheers to a fantastic 2025!!