Back in May I found out I had mono. If you have ever had mono before then you know how exhausted you feel. I. was. exhausted. 

The world doesn’t stop when you are sick. I still had to work and do all the other things I do everyday too. Getting out of bed to go teach in the mornings took every ounce of strength I had. I would come home after teaching and take a nap. I basically took a nap after everything. :)

Having mono had me constantly thinking about my energy and how I could preserve what little energy I did have. I still needed to get things done everyday so I had to really step back and answer a few question for myself. When was I the most energetic? Which tasks required more energy than others? What did I really need to get done each day?

I came up with a game plan to help me manage my energy throughout the day. This was essential so I could make sure I did certain tasks when my energy levels were higher and less demanding tasks when my energy was low. 

For instance, I am a morning person (which I guess is a good thing since I have to be at work at 6am). If I had writing to do, I would make sure to do it first thing in the morning when my brain was really working, rather than the afternoon when I felt tired and foggy. 

I also knew that I would feel better after a nap, so I planned other activities that needed either mental or physical energy for those time slots. 

Each day was different, so I allowed myself grace to make changes as needed. I also just let go of certain things all together. I have a great support system, so Dave helped out wherever he could so I could save my energy for the things that really needed it. 

We all go through periods where our energy waxes and wanes. This happens even when we are well. Having a game plan even when you are feeling energetic, will help you to figure out how to plan your day. Knowing when you are most energetic will help you create space to get the most important things done during this period. This can be a real game changer in both your work and your personal life. 

Knowing when it is time to rest is essential as well. While resting is difficult for me, I have learned over time that honoring my body’s signals helps me with my energy and also with productivity. Rest can also give you a new perspective on what really needs your attention and what doesn’t.