We’re big fans of Hill City, the minimalist performance brand that offers technical prowess and comfort without screaming. The understated, almost workwear-ish aesthetic means it's stylish enough to be worn anywhere, while serving you well through any workout or outdoor adventure. And that's just how Noah Palmer wants it. The former Major League Soccer goalie founded the San Francisco brand based on the principle that clothes could flex, breathe and function without looking like they're trying too hard. Palmer is an easygoing kind of guy. But he doesn't let those feel-good Cali vibes keep him from getting shit done—his old school paper checklist (never not by his side) will attest to that. We caught up with him to get some intel on waking up early, prioritizing your needs and importance of breaking up a routine.

I try my best to wake up by 5 am.

But I let myself sleep in on one of the weekend days, usually waking up whenever my five-year-old wakes up.

I don’t sweat over how much sleep I get.

But it's usually in the six to seven-hour range.

Solo time in the morning is important.

The first 60 minutes of my day are almost always spent alone. While coffee is brewing I check email and messages while listening to NPR's First Up podcast. Then I spend 5-10 minutes on the New York Times Spelling Bee Puzzle (which I'm addicted to) before starting to work.

But time with the kids is the most important.

In the hour before I head to work, I'll hang with my wife and kids (Grace is five, Annie is three, and our newborn, Hughes). It's grounding, and helps put the rest of the day in perspective. I love reading with Grace before everyone else wakes up.

I brew my own coffee each morning.

Usually I'll put down three to four cups, black, per day. I really like Equator Coffee. They're a local business and conveniently located near my house.

I don’t really eat breakfast.

It's not intermittent fasting or anything trendy. I've just never been a big breakfast guy.