Feeling stuck? Stressed? Need a quick break from your work?
Whether you work in a traditional office or work from home, there will be days when your energy level wanes. But when you can’t take a two hour lunch break for a nice nap, how can you find a boost to help you through the day?
Many times, people turn to artificial energy boosters like soda and energy drinks (guilty!) or sugar-filled bites of tasty goodness from the vending machines (again, guilty).
But the sugar rush is short lived. And ultimately, the following crash makes you feel worse than before. So when you need a quick boost of energy to help get your creative juices going again, having some go-to healthier options available provides long-term benefits.
1. Stretching or take a short walk
When you need a quick boost of physical energy, but can’t head to the gym or on a long run, take a few minutes to stretch at your desk. Letting your neck, shoulders, and legs stretch helps release the tension you carry while sitting at a desk.
If you are able to take a few minutes away from your work, try taking a quick lap around the building. Or, if you’re at home, walk around your block for an added boost of nature and sun.
2. Drink some water
While your first instinct might be to grab another cup of coffee or energy drink, the caffeine boost from artificial sources can cause side effects. Not to mention the potential for not being able to sleep that night if you drink caffeine too late in the day.
When you feel brain fog coming on, grab a glass of water instead. Water helps flush toxins from your system and hydrates the cells. And if you’re also feeling a bit hungry, a glass of water will fill you up, helping you avoid a trip to the vending machine.
3. Crank up some music and do a little dance
When you’re running low on energy, taking a few minutes to turn up your favorite song. Music can be an instant energy boost. The sound and familiarity of favorite songs boost endorphins in your brain, helping you power through those creative slumps.
And better yet, if you’re in an area where you can move around, when you turn on your music, feel free to break out your best dance moves. Adding the dance elements provides even more mental and physical benefits.
4. Doodle or color
When you need a little creative energy boost, what better way get energy than through random creativity. Taking a few minutes to doodle or color something allows your brain to switch gears from the previous task. As a result, it engages new and different connections.
Those doodles serve two purposes. One, you get the energy boost from your brain switching gears. And two, those doodles and drawings can spark ideas for future creative projects. You never know when those pictures might turn into a story idea or a new logo design.
5. Write a list of non-work related things
When you need a break from work, take a few minutes to think about something completely unrelated. Maybe you’re planning a surprise birthday party for someone, or trying to come up with new ideas for your book club discussions. Making a list of things that aren’t part of your normal work gives you a chance to take a break from your normal routine.
A good option for a list is a gratitude list. In the midst of those moments where you’re overwhelmed, stressed, or disengaged with your work, writing out a list of 5-10 things you are thankful for helps you focus on positives. Having that list gives you a chance to think about things you enjoy, things you’re looking forward to, and things that add value to your life.
6. Read a poem or short essay that inspires you
As you go through your creative work, most likely you’ve come across something that you found particularly inspiring. Maybe it was a poem by a favorite writer, an essay by a favorite author, or even a print by a favorite artist. Whatever that piece is, keeping a copy of it at your desk or work area can be a quick go-to boost for inspiration.
Print out the poem or excerpts from the essay and hang it at your desk. Get a copy of a print you like to frame above your desk. When you feel yourself losing interest, take a quick glance at your poems or pictures. These serve as a great visual reminder of your creative influences
7. Write a note to someone special
Whether you have a co-worker, a friend, or family member who supports your creative work, taking a few minutes to write him/her a quick note can be a fun way to boost your own energy. Letting them know you appreciate them encourages you both.
If you have time, use that creative energy boost to decorate a card or write a fun poem for your supporter. This special touch allows you to use your skills to further show your cheerleaders your appreciation.
Reignite your creativity!
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Great ideas. Thank you!