Why On Earth Does Dolly Parton Get Up at 3 AM Every Day?

At age 74, Dolly Parton is still full of energy, no matter how busy her schedule is. The legendary singer recently divulged the secret behind her endless enthusiasm and vibrancy — and it involves waking up super early in the morning to do “spiritual work.”

“I’m usually up by 3 o’clock,” Dolly revealed on TODAY. “I go to bed early, but I’m just an early bird.”

While many of us have accidentally woken up during what Dolly calls “the wee hours,” the superstar insisted that she actually loves starting her day long before most folks do.

“I do my little meditations, I do my little spiritual work,” she said. “I get more work done between 3 and 7 than most people all day, because it’s quiet and the energy’s all low-key, except mine.”

Dolly explained that making time for prayer during these early hours is especially important to her: “I just thank the Lord for another day.”

She admitted that she also does some routine work in the morning, such as checking mail and answering calls. If the mood strikes, she might try to get some songwriting done as well. But no matter what happens during the quietest part of the a.m., Dolly’s main focus is always spirituality.

Considering that Dolly has been open about her faith for quite some time, it’s no surprise that prayer and meditation are part of her daily routine. But it is pretty shocking that she focuses on them before most birds even start chirping outside.

That said, if this morning routine works for Dolly, we certainly aren’t going to tell her to do anything different. Goodness knows she’s always followed her own unique — not to mention very inspirational — path anyway! 

Can’t get enough of the queen of country? Check out 10 more wild and wonderful stories about Dolly Parton’s life.