How is your productivity going so far this year? Did you achieve what you wanted to in January? Or are you finding that you’re off to a slow start?
It’s February tomorrow so it’s a good time to reflect on how this year is tracking so far and (if need be) focus on ways to improve it. If you want to look back on 2023 and feel proud of what you’ve achieved, then you need optimum energy to feel great, have fun and achieve your goals. Here are some sure-fire ways to improve energy:
1. Put away your mobile phone
Our smartphones are capable of fun, interesting and incredible things but they’re also extraordinarily distracting and addictive. Have you checked how much time you spend on your phone each day? It may shock you. According to recent research, the average Australian spends 5.5 hours per day on their phone. Time spent on your phone deducts from time you have to spend on everyone and everything else in your life. Consider creating more balance with scheduled phone free time, for example putting your phone away and not checking it after 7:30pm every night.
2. Sleep
Experts recommend that adults get an average of 7-9 hours sleep every night. Consider this your wake up “sleep-up” call to improve your energy levels by increasing your sleep. Sleep deprivation has been linked to lack of concentration, weight gain, high blood pressure, mood swings, weakened immunity and an increased risk of diabetes. Do what you can to sleep the recommended amount and you’ll experience the benefits.
3. Schedule it
Write out a schedule based on your goals and activities that you can follow week to week. Without a written plan for how you’re going to achieve your goals, your likelihood of success is low. Furthermore, it’s an energy and time saver being organised and knowing exactly what you have to do day-to-day.
4. Manage your stress levels
Being stressed is a very tiring state of being and long-term stress can have negative consequences for your health. Life will present you with challenges but being emotional stable and mentally healthy will help you to face them. Notice what things make you happy and contribute to lowering your stress levels… is it going for a surf? reading a good book? meditating? Listening to music? Find the things that help you to fill up your cup and honour their essential place in your life.
5. Exercise
Exercising gives us a natural energy boost as it pumps oxygen-rich blood into your heart, muscles and brain. It can feel counter-intuitive when you’re feeling tired to exercise but it is one of the easiest ways to improve your energy level.
6. Consider seeing a healthcare professional
There are many healthcare professionals who may be able to provide answers to your energy level concerns. For instance, a doctor might arrange a blood test that shows you’re low in iron or a nutritionist may work with you to improve your gut health. Don’t be afraid to ask for help in your journey to optimise your energy.