7 ways to boost your energy, against all odds!
If you have been following along with our theme for the year, “Unlocking Your Opportunity” we have already reviewed our past, developed a plan for the future, and committed to put our plans into action. And for any of this to happen, it takes energy to make it work, but sometimes there are roadblocks to our own energy levels. Whether they are physical, environmental or mental, check out some of my favorite ways to boost energy and leave a productivity slump in the dust, all far more effectively than any energy drink :)
1) Get moving—>
Whether it’s an early morning gym session, a conference call you can take while strolling around the block or a nearby park, or a bike ride after a long day at the office, when you move you will gain energy and throw the “office slump” out the window. Even when you are in the office, sitting for too long with out breaks will zap your energy levels. Getting up and moving around, every 50 minutes (basically 1 time per hour) is recommended to maintain maximum energy and keep you energized for the long run!
2) Master the power nap—>
Naps aren’t calling it quits, but rather recharging or “powering up” before a big fight. While sleeping at your desk might not be the best in etiquette (and perhaps not allowed in your office), if you can steal 5 minutes in a parking lot (or, yes, even close your door for a little quick office shut eye post lunch) you’ll hit back those afternoon meetings and tasks with vengeance!
3) Know your own schedule—>
We all have different times of the day we’re most active and focused, so why not put that to use? If you’re a morning person, let people know that and arrange meetings on the early side. If you always have a post lunch slump, do not schedule an important sales call for 1:30pm! Sometimes working with the system rather than fighting against it is the best way to find success.
4) Don’t eat $@%!—>
Have you ever felt like writing a huge sales pitch right after Thanksgiving dinner, or immediately a huge holiday party— of course not, so why would you eat a huge breakfast or lunch (or have 3 pieces of that birthday cheesecake!) you know will slow you down all afternoon when you’re trying to be productive. Pick foods that are fresh, colorful, light and fast (just like the best version of you!), and you’ll fly through your day and your to-do list!
5) Space out your caffeine—>
Similarly, we all known caffeine is great when you're feeling slumped, but try swapping that extra large, venti, super-sized coffee you have first thing for a few small cups of joe throughout the day. The former is akin to shotgunning a 6-pack of beer before you head to a party to "loosen up." It's simply overkill! Have less and spread it out... your brain (and body) will thank you in the long run.
6) Amp up your playlist—>
Music sets the mood; I am a very firm believer in this and I'm not alone! Research shows certain tunes set the the stage for particular emotions: confidence, power, decisiveness and of course, energy! Learn how to use music to your advantage, and go wild with your Spotify lists. Perhaps Mozart will boost your morning and Queen will help you power through your afternoon… the choice is yours, just make it work for your goals and be sure to turn it up!
7) Change of scenery—>
It can be hard to stay energized with the same physical view each and every day, that's why when I can, I mix it up with a "change in zip code, " which often has a huge influence on my energy levels! In Florida, I like to head out to the beach to write, or even sit by my pool, but it can be as simple as going to a cafe, sitting in a park, or even moving to a new desk in your office or area of your house or apartment to offer a fresh perspective on the task at hand. Give it a try!
Re-frame your mind, and find the energy within!
While there are often physical & circumstantial reasons that you might feel stuck in a slump, many times we don't have energy merely because we imagine the challenges to be bigger than they really are. Have you thought of all the reasons why you can’t achieve your goals? Have you spent the same amount of time considering how great it will be when you do achieve your goal? There are thousands of stories of overcoming odds to be successful, but all of them require the energy to keep going, to finish the race, and to get up just one more time than you get knocked down.
We all get tired and discouraged at times. That is why we need to find the things that give us the energy and the motivation to go on. As with any plan, it takes energy and effort to make it work. Even a great plan with good intentions will fail if you only make a half-hearted attempt. Achieving anything worthwhile is going to take everything you have! Passion, excitement, belief, commitment, and effort are the magic ingredients to producing your own internal energy… and believe me, it is better than any energy drink you can buy off the shelf!
Until next time…