Energy is the key thing we all need to consistently get more done every day. Like most of us we’re wearing multiple hats all at once and working long hours to consistently deliver results – your daily habits define your energy levels. When you’re tired and overwhelmed, you’re more likely to get distracted by things that don’t require a lot of energy.
The global pandemic has significantly changed our lifestyle and it’s important now more than ever to ensure we’re building healthy habits that allow us to boost our energy levels so we can do our best work every day. If we want to be mentally, emotionally, and physically ready to conquer the day, we need to take care of ourselves. Creating consistent habits is the best way to ensure we have the right energy levels to get more done every day.
While I’ve always been a creature of habit, over the last eight months, I’ve learned the importance of having daily habits that help boost my energy levels so I can stay focused and productive all day long. Small changes in my daily habits have helped me start a new coaching business to help go-getter women unlock their power within and live their purpose, while continuing to consistently deliver as an executive leader in the healthcare industry.
Consider these five daily habits to help boost your energy and get more done every day.
Get Better Sleep
Why it matters: You owe it to yourself to get your beauty rest. Getting enough sleep is essential to maintain optimal health and wellbeing. When it comes to your health, sleep is as vital as regular exercise and eating a balanced diet. Your body tends to suffer the consequences without it.
What I do: I’ve never been a good sleeper so I tend to focus quite a bit on creating an environment and routine that helps me calm my mind several hours before I go to bed to help optimize my sleep cycles. One of my favorite bedtime routines is to drink a cup of warm Golden Superfood Bliss, a turmeric and superfood elixir blend, that promotes better sleep. I’m also trying to turn off my electronic devices 1-2 hours before bedtime so I can fall asleep more easily to ensure I’m well-rested and alert the next day.
How do I start: One of the easiest changes you can make is to start by limiting your screen time before bedtime. I’d recommend turning off your electronic devices a minimum of 30 minutes before bedtime and gradually progress to 2 hours.
Move Your Body
Why it matters: One of the best things you can do for your health, happiness, and overall quality of life is get moving. Celebrate your body for everything it’s done for you and commit to getting active. Go for a walk, run, cycle, do yoga, or have a dance party. Whatever you do, aim for at least 30 minutes every day. It’s one of the best ways to overcome feelings of fear, anxiety, stress or worry.
What I do: I love to start my day with a challenging workout, long run or yoga practice. I try to balance my workouts by alternating amongst these three types of exercise to create variation so I never get bored.
How do I start: Choose a type of exercise that you love to do, or that you’re interested in trying, and just start. You can modify any type of exercise by reducing the duration or modifying the movement to fit your current skill and capability. If you’re just getting started, move your body for 15 minutes and work your way towards at least 30 minutes every day. When you discover a type of exercise you really enjoy, you’ll see the time will quickly fly by.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Why it matters: Getting enough water every day is important for your health. Water regulates your body temperature, supports your digestive system, flushes toxins and waste, and absorbs vitamins, minerals and other substances. You should aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water for healthy body function.
What I do: I’ll admit, some days it’s a challenge to drink 8 glasses of water. So, why not make it a game?! I challenge myself to see how much water I can drink each day, and I track my progress along the way so I can celebrate when I hit my goal, or I can give myself a swift kick in the behind when I need it.
How do I start: Make it easy! Grab your favorite water bottle and figure out how many times you have to fill it up to reach your hydration goal. Create a chart that allows you to mark off your water consumption as you progress through your day. When you reach your goal, do a celebratory dance. Rinse and repeat each day.
Fuel Your Body with Healthy Foods
Why it matters: It’s no secret that eating a nutritious, balanced diet provides the fuel and energy your body needs to live a healthy, active lifestyle. If you’re feeling sluggish or tired, consider fueling your body with the protein, healthy fat, fiber, and greens your body needs.
What I do: I tend to follow the 80/20 rule, in that, the majority of the time, I eat a healthy, balanced diet filled with protein, healthy fats, and vegetables. It’s important that I follow a nutrition plan that allows me some freedom yet gives me the framework to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
How do I start: Start with fueling your body with protein and vegetables, and mindfully eat carbohydrates and sugars. Consider tracking your daily meals and snacks in the MyFitnessPal App to help you determine where you may need to make some adjustments to your diet. Choosing a plan that is sustainable is the key to your success.
Create Space for Self-Care
Why it matters: Self-care is all about building a great relationship with yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally. It could be as simple as reading a book, hanging with friends, or taking a bubble bath. When you feel refreshed, restored, and rejuvenated, you can give more to your favorite people. Plan to spend up to one hour a day focused on YOU.
What I do: I love to learn and grow so reading or listening to a good book is both enjoyable and educational. Couple the book with a warm, bubble bath, and I’m in pure bliss.
How do I start: Choose something you love to do, and just do it! Taking one hour a day to relax and rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul is so important for your overall health and wellbeing.