Managing productivity by your energy not time

We often equate productivity with managing our time effectively. However, from my experience as a health coach, I've learned that true productivity and well-being come from managing energy, not just time.  In fact, I have a personal story to share. At the end of last year, I was diagnosed with ADHD. More and more of us women are being diagnosed because testing was simply not done on us for far too long. We were missed as children because we are very good at masking. When I was diagnosed, I was both happy and sad. The happiness is what I will share with you today as it pertains to energy. I was always a bit down on myself because I couldn’t seem to get as many things done as I watched my peers achieve. Being made aware that ADHD is a dopamine deficit really helped me to realize something. My brain works at warp speed almost all the time. So much of my energy gets depleted by that simple fact. So now that I am learning more of what makes me the way I am I have been looking at new ways to approach life and strategies that work with me and not just the way others work. 

It's important to focus on maintaining our energy levels throughout the day to stay productive over the long term. This approach involves rethinking productivity to emphasize energy management, which can help us work smarter, not harder.  

Here are some strategies to adjust your focus from purely time management to managing your energy for sustained productivity and better health. 

Understanding Energy Cycles 

Each person has unique energy highs and lows throughout the day. Track your energy levels for a week to identify when you are most and least productive. Schedule demanding tasks during your peak energy times and less demanding tasks during low energy periods. 

Nutrition for Sustained Energy 

Focus on a balanced diet with complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, and healthy fats to maintain stable energy levels. Dehydration can lead to fatigue. Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day. Choose snacks like nuts, fruits, or yogurt that provide a steady energy supply without the sugar crash. 

Physical Activity to Boost Energy 

Incorporate a mix of cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises into your routine. Even a 10-minute walk can invigorate you. Take short breaks throughout the day to stretch, which can increase blood flow and energy. 

Mindfulness and Rest 

Techniques like meditation or deep breathing can help manage stress, improving overall energy levels. Prioritize 7-9 hours of sleep. Good sleep hygiene includes a cool, dark room and turning off screens an hour before bed. 

Emotional Energy Management 

Engage with people who uplift you. Limit time with those who drain your energy. Learn to say no. Overcommitting can lead to burnout. Engaging in activities you love can rejuvenate your energy. 

Integrating Technology Wisely 

Apps like Trello or Asana can help manage tasks efficiently. Regularly schedule time away from screens to prevent digital fatigue. 

Continuous Learning and Adaptation 

What works today might not work tomorrow. Continually reassess and adjust your strategies. Don't hesitate to work with a health coach, nutritionist, or therapist for personalized advice. 

By wisely managing your energy and implementing these strategies, you can enhance your productivity, achieve better balance, and lead a more satisfying life. Keep in mind that being productive isn't solely about increasing your output. It's about efficiently prioritizing what's most important in a way that preserves your health and well-being. 

 PS if more of you want to know about ADHD let me know. I will be happy to share more as I go.