A 3 Step Routine to Boost Energy

One of the most popular excuses people rely on is a lack of energy. When we feel tired we give up early. It’s impossible to be enthusiastic when you’re exhausted. Energy is the difference between having a fantastic, productive day and merely going through the motions.

For most of my life I considered myself a low energy person. By nature I’m a night person. I’ve always been groggy in the mornings and I assumed there was nothing to be done about it. Recently I’ve come to realize that what you do is far more important than who you are.

By starting off your day with this simple 3 step routine you can create a boost of energy that lasts all day — leading to higher levels of happiness, productivity, and fitness.

Step 1 – Jump Out of Bed

Sleep feels great. When you’re in that warm cocoon between the sheets you never want to leave. I used to linger in bed, hitting the snooze button multiple times before reluctantly rising. This sets a lethargic tone for the entire day.

Getting up is inevitable, so you might as well do it quickly. As soon as the alarm goes off, jump out of bed. This energetic movement rouses you immediately. Make some other quick movements too. I usually swing my shoulders, hop around, or do a silly dance step. It might look ridiculous, but movement shakes off the cobwebs and gets you excited. Try it and you’ll be amazed how much the way you move affects the way you think and feel.

Step 2 – Exercise

Right after getting up, take action. Have your gear next to the bed so you don’t waste time. Go straight into 30-60 minutes of vigorous exercise. You’re probably thinking, “Exercise in the morning? You’ve got to be kidding. I have a hard enough time exercising at all.” I used to feel the same way, but after starting I couldn’t go back.

Exercise in the morning has immense benefits. First, it raises your metabolism. This creates a natural buzz that burns calories all day. Second, it gives you the opportunity to plan out your day. Deciding exactly what you need to achieve helps you prioritize. This allows you to start working on what’s important without hesitation. Third, it starts the day with a positive accomplishment. Don’t you feel proud of yourself after exercise? This creates momentum and self confidence that will improve your mindset for the rest of the day.

Step 3 – Eat a Solid Breakfast

Your body needs fuel. There is no substitute for a solid breakfast, especially if you want to get in great shape. Not eating leads to binging later on. It slows your metabolism to a crawl so you don’t burn as many calories. When I skip breakfast I feel tired, irritated, and always end up eating junk half way through the morning. Get into the habit of doing this every day and you won’t stop.

Pretty simple isn’t it? The main reason most people don’t do these 3 things is that they believe it takes too much time. This is a weak excuse. By investing time in energizing yourself you create many more productive hours than you expend.

This routine takes about 45 minutes longer than hitting the snooze button, getting showered, skipping breakfast, and leaving for work. I make time for it by getting up an hour earlier and I haven’t missed the sleep at all. Low energy levels aren’t due to lack of sleep, they’re due to lack of movement. The nights I don’t sleep well I still follow the routine and feel as good as ever.

Just try it and see how you feel. Once you get accustomed to starting your day with energy and confidence you’ll never want to stop.