I have a confession to make: sometimes I don’t feel like doing the things that need to get done. Maybe I’m alone in this, but my hunch is that some of you fight the same battles I do.

Most often when this happens to me, I feel drained, like my energy is waning. This is one reason we see a lot of energy boosting substances out there (5-hour Energy, Monster, Cliff Energy Bloks, etc.). I’m not opposed to some of these; however, I don’t want to depend on them to meet life’s demands. The truth is that some of us struggle to find the energy we need to do what needs doing.

If you are lacking energy at times, like I am, you need some weapons in your high performance arsenal to fight back. Here are 4 actions you can take to fight an energy drain today. 

Turn on Music

For intense brain work, I prefer some instrumental tunes with nature sounds or a good tempo. If it’s too relaxing, I’m ready for a nap. If the task is more physical, bring on some uptempo beats to get the blood moving. Music can be a great tool for getting us into action. Find what works for you. Create pre-planned playlists on Spotify or custom channels on Pandora, whatever gets the job done.

Get Outside

I love being outside. When I get stuck with writing or hit a roadblock with creativity or a tough problem, some fresh air goes a long way. What’s great is that getting outside can take so many forms. Sometimes, before writing a post, I’ll go for a run to think through my ideas or get the flow down. When coming up with solutions for a project at work, taking a walk can be a huge help. Plus, we all need a little sunshine. Get moving.

Reorient

Admittedly, I get sucked down rabbit trails or link after link on the internet search for…well, I don’t remember. When this happens to me, I often reorient to my plan for the day, which is made up of my to-do list and calendar. It keeps me moving forward and focused. A lot of times, this gives me the perspective and boost I need to take the next tangible step. Getting focused on what I need to accomplish and my deadlines helps energize my efforts. Next time your energy is zapped and you feel stuck, reorient to your plan.

Start 

This is one I’ve learned the hard way. Today, motivation and goal research backs up what Nike has said since 1988, “Just Do It.” I first learned this lesson with exercise, running to be specific. “I don’t feel like it.” or “It’s getting late; I’ll do it tomorrow,” are traitor-like thoughts in my head. I am my own toughest adversary. I was waiting for the motivation to come before I took action.

Turns out, it really works the other way around. I found that if I just get my gear on, lace up and step outside, I always win the battle. Amazing! Now, I can apply the same tactic to other areas (writing, packing, mowing the yard). It works. Give it a try the next time your adversary speaks up.

When you need a boost of energy, or just to get unstuck and refocused, give one of these 4 actions a shot. Build your arsenal, crack up some tunes, get some fresh air, reorient to your plan and put action before motivation. With these, I waste less time, devise better solutions and get more accomplished. Maybe you will too!

Question: What other tips do you have for boosting energy to do what needs doing? I’d love to hear your ideas in the comments section below.

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