7 Quick Ways to Feel More Energized
Need a pick-me-up? Try one of these options! (Photo: Stocksy/Eduard Bonnin)
You know those days that drag on and on — when you just can’t seem to get the job done, or perk yourself up enough to pay attention?
Interestingly, a feeling of energy is a key to feeling happy. Studies show that when you feel energetic, you feel much better about yourself.
On the other hand, when you feel exhausted, tasks that would ordinarily make you happy — like putting up holiday decorations, getting ready to go to a party, or planning a trip — make you feel overwhelmed and blue.
When my energy feels at a low ebb, I try one of these techniques (well, first I drink something with caffeine in it, but if I feel like I need to take further steps, I try these strategies):
1. Exercise — even a quick, 10-minute walk will increase your energy and boost your mood. This really works! Try it! People often say they’re too tired to exercise, but in fact, unless you’re exercising at a very intense level, exercise tends to boost energy rather than deplete it.
2. Listen to lively music. This is one of the quickest, easiest ways to get a jolt of energy.
3. Get enough sleep. If the alarm blasts you awake every morning, you’re not getting enough sleep — and it matters. Most adults need at least seven hours each night. Don’t kid yourself about how much sleep you need! (Here are some tips for getting good sleep.)
4. Act energetic. Research shows that when people move faster, their metabolism speeds up. Also, because the way we act influences the way we feel (to an almost uncanny degree), acting with energy will make you feel more energetic. Stand up while talking on the phone, walk more quickly, speak with more animation.
5. Talk to friends. We get a real charge from connecting with other people. I’ve noticed that if I’m feeling low, and then run into a friend on the street, I walk away feeling much more energetic. Reach out if you need a boost. This is true for introverts and extroverts alike.
6. Get something done. Crossing a nagging chore off your to-do list provides a big rush of energy. For a huge surge, clean out a closet. You’ll be amazed at how great you feel afterward. A friend once told me, “Every to-do list should include one item that can be crossed off in the first five minutes.” If that’s all you can do, do it; you’ll feel better.
7. Skip the food strategy. It’s tempting to reach for a carton of ice cream when you’re feeling listless, but in the end, all those extra calories will just drag you down. In general, be wary of the urge to treat yourself when you’re feeling low.
Agree? Disagree? What are your thoughts?
Gretchen Rubin is the author of the blockbuster New York Times bestsellers, Better Than Before, The Happiness Project, and Happier at Home. On her weekly podcast Happier with Gretchen Rubin, she discusses good habits and happiness with her sister Elizabeth Craft. She writes about happiness and habit-formation at gretchenrubin.com. Follow her on Twitter, @gretchenrubin, or on Facebook at facebook.com/GretchenRubin.
Read This Next: 8 Reasons You Have No Energy
