You cannot be more productive or organized than your personal energy allows.
~ Julie Gray, Profound Impact
Your energy is the foundation of all of your organizing and productivity systems. We all have an energy tank and we need to monitor it carefully.
When your reserves are high it’s easier to make decisions, think clearly, prioritize with less effort. Basically, you get more stuff done.
When your energy reserves are low it’s challenging to do even simple things.
I’ll freely admit I sometimes let my energy reserves run low. Life can be challenging and hectic. There’s just so much that needs to be done.
All. The. Time.
I know that taking care of myself routinely will improve my overall productivity, but things happen. I forget. I get overwhelmed. I get exhausted.
How about you? Do you let your energy reserves run low?
When I find myself in that state, the best thing I can do is refuel. For me, it’s taking guilt-free time off. Whether it’s getting lost in a great novel, going for a walk in the fresh air, or having a ‘pajama day’ where I can watch movies and indulge in total disconnect from the outside world. Even with all the pressure to get my stuff done, I will step away and do things that have nothing to do with work.
How do you refuel your energy tank?
It’s critical to get clear on what activities refuel and nourish you.
Create a nourishment menu for yourself so that you have a go-to checklist of activities that will nourish and refuel you when you’re feeling overwhelmed and low on energy.
Take a moment to clear your mind. Breathe deeply and ask yourself:
“What activities most rejuvenate me?”
Here are a few ideas to get you thinking …
- Sleep
- Playing with your kids
- Journaling
- Hot Bath
- Meditation and Prayer
- Being in nature
- Socializing with friends/family
- Guilt-free time off
This list can also be used as a reminder of how you want to take care of yourself on a regular basis. When you’re feeling particularly overwhelmed or frustrated by life, it’s helpful to consider just how long it’s been since you’ve refueled.
These activities can have a big impact on your overall outlook.
It’s a funny thing. Once I step away from the stress, overwhelm and grind, I get a different perspective. I can clearly see that I really do have enough time to do all the important things I want and need to do. And when I get that perspective, I feel energized and motivated and I start to get stuff done.
Refuel your energy reserves regularly … get stuff done.
Now, get on with your day!
PS …
If you need help getting some balance back into your life so that you’re regularly refueling and nourishing yourself, get in touch with me. You can also check out my Productivity Coaching services here …
