“Managing energy, not time, is the key to high performance and personal renewal.”

Loehr & Schwartz, The Power of Full Engagement

I had high aspirations for the Christmas and New Year break.

In the lead up to the break, I had been busy doing some freelance contract work in finance (the career I am gradually moving away from towards something more meaningful in this personal development space). I had been craving some free time to get back into this creative mode of writing, planning a podcast, reading, thinking and helping others through coaching.

I finally had two weeks of a blank calendar. I blocked out the mornings for my creative work. All the time in the world to be inspired and productive. Just what I had been waiting for.

I had some success, but it didn’t take long for me to get derailed. Long family lunches and dinners. Alcoholic drinks on most days. Staying up late and sleeping in late. I stopped exercising every day. The festive spirit led me to lots of overeating and indulging. I lost my routine.

I started to notice this loss of routine on my energy and productivity. Suddenly I couldn’t be bothered writing or reading. I didn’t feel like it. My burst of creativity was gone. 

I had plenty of time, but I had no energy.

This brings me back to the idea of managing energy, not time (Loehr & Schwartz). What good is planning time to be productive, if you don’t have the energy to show up and do the work?

I find I do my best work when I am energised and feel like doing the work. Not necessarily when I perfectly schedule out my calendar for the work.

So how can I improve my energy levels? By sticking to my usual daily routine:

• Don’t over-eat
• Limit alcohol
• Go to bed early and get up early
• Exercise morning and evening
• Meditate 
• Read something thought-provoking

When I follow this routine, I find it is not so much of a battle to show up and do creative work. I feel energised, inspired and ready to go.

Common advice from professionals is that you should show up every day and do the work regardless of how you feel. The magic of an energising daily routine increases the chances of success.

Now, time to learn this lesson and get back to my daily routine.

Reflection

• I recognise the importance of a daily routine to manage my energy levels to do my best work.