Injecting Energy into Your Routine

“If you cannot be positive then at least be quiet.” Joel Osteen
In her book, You Don’t Have to Go Home From Work Exhausted!, Anne McGee-Cooper explains that there are four chances during the day to recharge energy levels: “getting ready for work, commuting to work, eating lunch, and commuting from work.” She then advises on ways to plan and implement an improved routine for energy renewal.
Expanding upon this, we have some fresh suggestions adapted from this workaday classic, because we want the best for you and your one sweet life.
Getting Ready for Work
If you are the type to rush out the door, stop that habit right now! No one can be at their best if they are racing traffic or a train schedule. Wake up earlier. If you have to forfeit 30 minutes of your evening for an earlier bedtime, it is worth it to have a peaceful commute. Use the headspace you might normally reserve for worrying to instead visualize a successful workday.

Commuting to Work

Eat breakfast! But before you do, visualize the way you’d ideally like the day to unfold. Plan for greatness. Think about the energy you’re generating for the day. Take foods on the train or in the car with you that are fresh and simple as possible. Be sure to bring water along with you as well as coffee.

Eating Lunch

Eat for energy. Your meal choices are meant to get you through the day. Use your next lunch break to research the most energizing foods, and start planning meals ahead of time. Negativity is draining, so avoid it at all costs. Even if that means eating alone or acquiring a new lunch buddy. Add more water in at lunch to keep yourself hydrated.

Try to fit a 20-minute nap or 10-minute walk into your lunch breaks. Alternate which days you do these activities.

Commuting from Work

Avoid self-criticism on the commute home. You did your best; review the day, and mentally gather proof of this. Depending on the length of your commute, you might also have time to plan an enjoyable evening.

If it makes sense, include a bike ride on your way home. It’s a great way to work off stress and clear your mind. Again, plain water works well without the high cost of energy drinks for your ride home.

To reiterate from another chapter in our book, it is imperative that you plan for short breaks in your work schedule: stretch, take a walk, close your eyes for a few minutes, do a brain-break task like filing, and find the time to make someone smile or laugh.

Get adequate sleep as part of your energy plan. If you’re sleep-deprived, this can effect all your other energetic plans.

No matter how sedentary your job is, your brain works hard for eight hours or more. Unnecessary stress is taxing, and we can plan to minimize it. Remind yourself that taking time to focus on yourself and your interests in a positive way is as productive as meeting any deadline.