7 Things That Are... Sapping Your Energy

Could your everyday habits be draining you? Here’s what you can do to bounce back, pronto

Summer warmth, lighter days, and hopefully a week or two away should send our energy levels into overdrive at this time of the year. But sometimes our seemingly harmless habits can actually leave us feeling exhausted. Check out these little lifestyle tweaks which will help you feel rejuvenated and refreshed.

1 Not saying no

In today’s hectic, multitasking society, it seems many of us find saying ‘no’ even harder. We end up agreeing to too many requests and juggling too many things, just because we want to be liked. But being a people pleaser can be exhausting.

ENERGY SOLUTION

‘If you find it hard to say no to someone’s face, tell them you’ll check your diary and get back to them. Email or text can give you the space to find the words to refuse someone without the risk of confrontation,’ says psychotherapist Juliet Grace. ‘Honestly explain you’d like to help, but don’t want to let anyone down as you’re overcommitted. Don’t waver – you’ll need to be firm with people used to your previous amenable self!’

2 Your out-of-control coffee compulsion

While one cup can make you feel more alert, too much can trigger highs and lows that leave you fatigued, warns women’s health expert and author Dr Marilyn Glenville. Researchers from the Sleep Disorders & Research Center at Henry Ford Hospital and Wayne State College of Medicine found drinking coffee, even six hours prior to bedtime, means poorer quality sleep.

ENERGY SOLUTION