Walkinshaw Coaching

Even the most positive, high energy people sometimes find themselves in an energy rut.  This can be a big problem for the small business owner who already has too much to do in too little time.  If you find yourself in this situation, here are 5 strategies you can employ to boost your energy and get yourself going again. 

1.       Change Your Location

We live in a world of laptop computers and wireless internet access.  Why not take advantage of this and take your work on the road?  Sometimes moving to a different venue can give you a new perspective and new inspiration.  Why not do some work at a local coffee shop, the public library or at the airport?  Many of these locations provide free internet access as well.

2.       Pump Up the Music

If you are wondering whether or not music can change your mood, try watching a scary movie with the sound off.  As movie producers learned long ago, music can have a dramatic impact on your mood and emotions.  Listen to music that inspires you or brings back a fun memory.  Feel free to sing along, even if you can’t carry a tune. 

3.       Take a Hike

Even light exercise can help you to increase your blood flow and to shake off a mid-afternoon energy dip.  For me, a leisurely walk around the neighborhood works best.  While walking, I intensely focus on what is happening around me, not on work.  This “mental break” is often just what I need to reset my concentrate and energy level.

4.       Schedule Something Fun

Having something to look forward can be an energy booster.  Grab your calendar and make some plans.  Even if you haven’t worked out the details, pick some tentative dates and make a few notes.  Use this as a reward for completing the tasks at hand.

5.       Make a Bet

Are you extremely competitive?  If so, try this.  Determine what needs to be done and by when.  Then call a friend or colleague and make a bet that you will complete the task by the deadline or you will owe them something.  For example, let’s assume you want to complete a client proposal by 3PM today.  Call your friend and say, “John, I need to complete my client proposal by 3PM today.  If I don’t, I’ll owe you dinner at the restaurant of your choice.  Please call me at 3PM to see who won.”  If you are extremely competitive, this will make your energy skyrocket!

These are just a few strategies to boost your energy.  Feel free to try them out, keep those that work for you and discard those that don’t.  If you have other strategies you would like to share, please post them below.  I look forward to hearing about your results, and if you owe anyone dinner!

Scott Walkinshaw
Business Coach & Speaker
Walkinshaw Coaching
South Florida