I admit that I have been guilty of being irritable because I was hungry, more often than once! Not surprisingly, once I had grabbed a bite, I was a happy camper, ready to keep going. Over the last couple of years, as I have been coaching successful mid-life professionals, there have been several individuals who were similarly less mindful of their energy patterns at times. Here a few things I have applied in my own experience to manage my energy:
Respect your bio-rhythm & sleep-cycle: We all have a natural bio-rhythm that regulates our energy levels through the day. I am at my best energy in the mornings. Right after lunch is a two-hour slump zone and then energy picks up again for the rest of the day. Notice your energy-rhythm which might be different from your sleep cycle! If you feel tired and tend to yawn in the mornings, re-assess your sleep cycle.
Emails can be energy guzzlers: I used to get to my emails first thing while starting work. There would invariably be a large number of emails, mostly not critical for me to get to right then - but I was a "slave of a clean in-box"! I learnt to get to emails at 2-3 fixed times a day only - and while there were still a few unread emails, the world did not come to a standstill!
Do your most important work in your best energy zones: As a result of #1 and #2, I could focus on getting the most important tasks done in the first 60-90 minutes of starting my work-day, which is my best energy zone. It felt good to have some key tasks done and it also re-charged my energy for another couple of hours!
Take small stretch-breaks: I learnt to go for a 15-20 minute brisk walk or at least get away from my work-station, 2-3 times a day roughly every two hours. It greatly refreshes your eyes, your mind and your body - especially if you are in a sedentary type of job!
Spend time with someone you care about: There is nothing more refreshing for our heart and mind than spending time with someone we love - whether it is your spouse, your children or parents, your pet, or just someone who needs your help! Nourishing one another is what makes us human.
Finally, connect to your spiritual energy: I learnt to honour that I am a bundle of energy that is a part of this universe also made of the same energy. For me, the first
hour in the morning when I wake up and the last hour in the evening before going to sleep, are very precious times to connect with this energy. At these times, I like to read or listen to something that truly replenishes my spirit. It sets me up for the day and helps me to wind down the day with gratitude for the universe in my heart.
Photos by charlesdeluvio on Unsplash & Lauren Lulu-Taylor-on Unsplash
The author, Anuj Chadha, is a Life & Executive Coach, Founder of Three Circles. At Three Circles, we come with a deep understanding of what it takes to navigate the challenges that life throws at us. We partner with our clients, listen to their life aspirations, and support them to break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back. Life is too precious to be unhappy, unsure, or unfulfilled. Partner with us as you re-imagine and re-create the Life that you Love!
Much needed reminders