Feeling “tired” all the time can be downright exhausting. It’s like you’re stuck in a loop, and the only way out is to break free from certain habits.
Yes, habits. Those little actions that seem insignificant, but they can actually be the ones draining your energy reserves.
I’m here to tell you about eight common habits that might be behind your constant fatigue. And trust me, once you start letting these go, you’ll begin to feel a lot less “tired.”
So, are you ready to say goodbye to these energy-sapping routines? Let’s dive in.
1) Overcommitting
We all have a tendency to say “yes” to too many things.
It’s an easy trap to fall into. When opportunities come our way, we want to seize them. When someone needs our help, we want to be there. But each “yes” adds another item to our already overflowing to-do list.
And guess what? It’s tiring.
Overcommitting is a habit that can leave you feeling constantly drained, with no time for rest or recovery. It’s like being on a treadmill that never stops.
The solution? Learn the art of saying “no”. Prioritize your tasks and commitments, and don’t be afraid to turn down requests that aren’t essential or don’t serve your goals.
Remember, every “no” you say is a “yes” to more energy, less stress, and better overall wellbeing. And there’s nothing manipulative about taking care of yourself.
2) Skipping meals
Well, this one definitely hits home for me.
I used to think that skipping meals was a great way to save time. I thought I was being efficient, productive even.
But instead of gaining more time, I found myself feeling sluggish, unfocused and, of course, tired. It turns out, skipping meals is more of an energy thief than a time-saver.
Our bodies need fuel to function properly. Just like you wouldn’t expect your car to run without gas, you shouldn’t expect your body to run without food. When we skip meals, we deprive our bodies of the nutrients and energy it needs to keep going.
So, no matter how busy you are, make sure to take a break and grab a bite. Your body (and your energy levels) will thank you. Trust me, I’ve been there!
3) Neglecting hydration
When we think about what can make us feel tired, dehydration isn’t usually the first thing that comes to mind. However, even mild dehydration can significantly affect your energy levels and mood.
Our bodies are made up of about 60% water, and every single cell in our body needs it to function properly. When we don’t drink enough, our bodily functions slow down and become less efficient, leading to feelings of fatigue.
So next time you’re feeling a little sluggish, instead of reaching for a coffee or an energy drink, try grabbing a glass of water. It’s a simple change that can make a big difference.
4) Constantly checking your phone
In the era of smartphones, it’s hard to resist the urge to constantly check our devices. Whether it’s emails, social media, or text messages, we’re always connected.
But did you know this habit can actually be draining your energy?
The constant influx of information can overwhelm our brains, making us feel mentally exhausted. Not to mention, the blue light emitted by our screens can interfere with our sleep patterns, leaving us feeling tired during the day.
So if you’re feeling worn out, try setting aside some screen-free time each day. Your brain will thank you for the break!
5) Neglecting self-care
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to forget about taking care of ourselves. We’re often so focused on taking care of others and meeting deadlines that we put our own needs on the back burner.
But self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.
It’s about recognizing and responding to your own needs, whether it’s taking a warm bath, reading a good book, or just taking a moment to breathe. It’s about treating yourself with the same kindness and respect that you would give to others.
When you neglect self-care, you’re essentially running on empty, which can lead to feelings of fatigue. So remember, taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential for your well-being and energy levels.
6) Ignoring exercise
I’ll admit it, I used to be the person who thought exercise was just about losing weight or building muscle. But over time, I’ve realized it’s so much more than that.
When I started incorporating regular exercise into my routine, I noticed a significant shift in my energy levels. Even on days when I felt too tired to move, a quick walk or a short yoga session would leave me feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Exercise increases blood flow, improves our mood through the release of endorphins, and can even help us sleep better—all things that can help fight fatigue. So, even if it’s just a 10-minute walk, make physical activity a part of your routine. You might just find it’s the energy boost you’ve been looking for.
7) Poor sleep habits
This might seem obvious, but it’s surprising how many of us have poor sleep habits. Late-night Netflix binges, scrolling through social media in bed, or even having a late-night snack can all interfere with our sleep quality.
Good sleep isn’t just about the number of hours you get, but also the quality of that sleep. A restless night can leave you feeling just as tired as a short night.
So, make your bedroom a sanctuary. Keep it dark, cool, and quiet. Set a regular sleep schedule and stick to it. And remember, what you do before bed matters too—so try to wind down with a book instead of a screen. Your energy levels will thank you.
8) Not allowing downtime
In our always-on society, we often feel guilty for taking a break. But the truth is, downtime is essential for our health and energy levels.
Our brains need time to rest and recharge. Without it, we can end up feeling constantly tired, burned out, and overwhelmed.
So give yourself permission to rest. Whether it’s taking a short nap, meditating, or simply sitting quietly with a cup of tea, find what works for you and make it a non-negotiable part of your day.
Remember, rest isn’t a reward for hard work—it’s a requirement for it.
Final thoughts: It’s about balance
The essence of feeling energized and refreshed isn’t always about monumental changes or drastic measures. Often, it’s about finding a balance in our day-to-day routines.
Be it conscious hydration, regular exercise, or simply learning the art of saying “no”, small habit changes can make a world of difference in our energy levels.
Each of these habits is interlinked, creating a harmony that forms the foundation of our well-being. When one is out of sync, it disruptively ripples across the others.
Remember, fatigue isn’t a standalone issue—it’s often a signal from our body that something in our routine is amiss.
So, as we navigate through life’s ups and downs, let’s take a moment to pause and reflect on our habits. Are they serving us? Or are they quietly sapping our energy?
Because at the end of the day, it’s not about merely surviving—it’s about thriving with vitality and zest.
