10 Things Draining Your Energy

Lack of energy is something that affects us all at some point - especially these days. Before the pandemic, the number of people who said they often felt tired was around 43%. During the pandemic, that number shot up to 60%! Pandemic or not, the truth is that many of our everyday habits can actually leave you feeling tired. Cut down on a few sneaky energy-zappers, and you’ll feel lighter in no time. ​

10 Things that Secretly Drain Your Energy

1. Not getting enough exercise. Not moving your body can make you want to move even LESS! Making time for exercise can get your blood pumping, improve your endurance, and boost your energy.
2. Eating processed and refined carbs. These might give you a quick shot of energy thanks to the blood sugar rush… but when your body sends out insulin to remove the sugar, it can make your blood sugar level plummet, leaving you tired and drained.
3. Not getting enough quality sleep. Your body needs sleep to fully recover and recharge. If you aren’t sleeping well, grab my guide to better sleep. 
4. Food sensitivities. One side effect of eating foods that your body is sensitive to includes fatigue. If you think that you might have sensitivities, it’s worth checking with your doctor. Common culprits include gluten, dairy, corn, soy, and eggs.
5. Eating too LITTLE. Not getting enough fuel (i.e., food) can make you feel tired – and so can eating a poor-quality diet without enough nutrients.
6. Not getting enough protein. Studies show that eating protein boosts your metabolism, and scientists believe this may help prevent tiredness. 
7. Drinking too little water. Studies show that being even a little dehydrated can make it harder to stay focused and leave you feeling drained. 
8. Energy drinks (including coffee). Like refined carbs, these can send your energy up before crashing back down. Caffeine can take up to 8 hours to clear your system, making it harder to get a good night of sleep, adding to the energy drain.
9. Stress. Feeling constantly stressed can definitely deflate your energy, both mentally and emotionally. Just another reason it’s important to have (and follow!) a plan for managing stress. Read more about how to beat stress before it even starts. 
10. Being in a negative environment. It’s possible to “catch” the moods of the people around you. But being aware of it can help lower your susceptibility, as can finding things that make you feel positive! There are also strategies to help you prime your brain to be more positive!

If you move your body, eat healthy foods, drink your water and surround yourself with a positive environment, your energy should quickly return. And if it doesn’t, it’s worth talking to your doctor to see if you have an underlying issue.

I believe that it’s all connected: sleep, stress, nutrition, fitness, mindset, and relationships. The most successful people really do take care of themselves!  What’s one area you could work on this week?

---