Being tired and having low energy is common in the workplace. How can it not be? You've probably been getting up early five days or more per week for years. You probably get home late from work and go to bed late. Getting eight hours of sleep at night may even be a strange concept for you. Being tired is the norm and no longer the exception.
There is, however, no mystery to feeling better at work. You take care of yourself first, and then you can take care of the demands that have been placed on you. If you want it, and work at, you can start to feel more energized at your job in a very short period of time.
How? Simply follow the three steps below.
1. Eat Better
When you are hungry, what do you reach for? Something quick? The problem is, “quick” doesn’t always equal “nutritious.” Cookies, donuts, candy, and other tasty treats might feel good in the moment, but they will just end up making you feel worse later in the day. Make better food choices. Do this one meal at a time. Instead of coffee and donuts for breakfast, have juice and egg whites. Instead of a hamburger and french fries, have the burger without the bun and a salad on the side. Instead of chocolate as a snack, reach for a piece of fruit, which has natural sugar in it. These small changes can have a big impact on how you feel.
2. Get Active
Do you move your body? Do you feel stiff sitting at your desk all day? Getting active doesn’t always mean having to go to the gym. You can take a walk at lunch. You can take the stairs instead of the elevator. You can stretch at your desk. You can hand deliver your inter-office mail. As long as you’re moving, you will feel better, and your body will thank you.
Stress is a killer of energy. When you are wound up, your body feels tighter. Your shoulders are up. Your body is stiff. Ten minutes, though, is all you need to make a difference. Get up from your desk and walk around. Visit a co-worker. Take a break for lunch. Go outside and get some sun. Stress is a normal part of your workday, but it doesn’t have to get the best of you.
Poor eating habits, lack of physical activity, stress, and overwork are key factors that contribute to your tiredness and lethargy during the day. If you are feeling tired, know that you can turn your energy level around if you want to.
So, what do you say? You only have one life to live, so it might as well be a life you love!
About the Author
Deborah Brown-Volkman is the president of Surpass Your Dreams, Inc., a successful career, life, and mentor coaching company that works with senior executives, vice presidents, and managers who are looking for new career opportunities or seek to become more productive in their current roles. She is the author of Coach Yourself to a New Career and How to Feel Great at Work Every Day. Deborah can be reached at http://www.surpassyourdreams.com or at (631) 874-2877.
