Lately, I find myself really tired at the end of my work day.  My role at work has changed a lot in the last year and my workload is sometimes overwhelming, but I didn’t think it would zap me this much.  I don’t care much for my new supervisor, and I don’t like some of the recent changes in the company, so I know I’m not as positive about working here as I used to be.  At my recent annual physical, I discussed this with my doctor and was given a clean bill of health.  Any other ideas to help me stop going home from work exhausted?

Your heavy workload is clearly not the only thing that’s zapping your energy.  There are many other energy drainers in the work environment and taking action on just one of them will definitely help you boost your get-up-and-go.

Adjust your attitude – A bad attitude drags you down.  Conversely, current research provides evidence that higher levels of well-being result in lower levels of stress hormones and inflammation in our bodies.  A healthier body tires less easily.

Consider your work style – Work that utilizes your natural talents and abilities tends to energize you, while work for which you are not so well-suited can quickly be fatiguing.  Organize your day to create a balance between the tasks that invigorate you and those that sap your vitality.  Whenever possible, trade or delegate those tasks that drain the life out of you to someone with a different style who will find them stimulating.

Maintain healthy working relationships – Negative interactions between people leave a black cloud hanging over everyone’s head.  Build amiable, supportive working relationships by communicating openly, giving positive feedback, offering and asking for help, and addressing issues as they arise.

Reduce email interruptions – Emails have a way of demanding immediate attention or unnecessarily distracting us.  Prioritize your emails and consciously decide what needs your attention and when.  Turn off your email message alert as needed to reduce interruptions, and turn off your computer screen when non-computer tasks require your full concentration.

Take a break – All work and no breaks make Jack and Jill… tired.  Take a short walk, listen to music, or practice a relaxation exercise.  For a quick break, share a joke or read something humorous.  Laughter increases your t-cell count, boosts your immune system, releases endorphins, lowers your blood pressure, and suppresses stress related hormones.

Boosting your energy makes for a better you - at work and at home!