Vice President Kamala Harris attributes her ability to handle 90-hour workweeks to a steadfast morning routine centered around exercise and a nutritious breakfast. Recently, on the “Club Shay Shay” podcast with Shannon Sharpe, she shared that her daily schedule often extends to 14 or 15 hours.
Regardless of how much or how little sleep she gets, Harris always prioritizes her morning workout, viewing it as essential for maintaining her mental, physical, and spiritual health. She explained that this time in the morning is her own, a brief period before she steps into the demands of the day.
Her routine has changed over the years, evolving to match her high-energy lifestyle. In 2018, Harris relied on low-sugar Raisin Bran and did elliptical workouts or 30-minute SoulCycle sessions.
Now, she fuels up with a spinach omelet, chicken apple sausage, and toast, a breakfast that gives her lasting energy for her hectic schedule. She described this shift to Sharpe, noting that after breakfast, she’s immediately off to meetings and events, often in multiple cities within the same day, leaving little time for herself until evening.
Breakfast wasn’t always a priority for Harris, but she’s come to appreciate its value for preparing both her mind and body for the day ahead. Research backs her belief in a morning meal’s importance, with studies linking breakfast to improved mood, better sleep quality, and longer-lasting energy levels.
Kamala Harris
This habit also aligns with findings from “blue zone” communities, where breakfast is common and correlated with longer, healthier lives, according to longevity expert Dan Buettner.
Harris’s morning regimen also reflects her focus on punctuality and respect for others’ time, a principle she holds in her professional life. In a conversation on Brené Brown’s “Unlocking Us” podcast, Harris emphasized the importance of starting all meetings on time, noting that she rarely sees elected officials adhere to strict punctuality.
For Harris, being on time is a way to show respect for the people she works with, and it’s a standard she holds herself to as part of her leadership style.
Through her commitment to routine and discipline, Harris demonstrates a methodical approach to managing a demanding schedule. Her emphasis on self-care, consistency, and respect for time enables her to stay focused and energized throughout the day. By maintaining these habits, she aims to bring stability to her work in public office, ensuring she’s prepared and present for the responsibilities of her role.
