What % is your battery on?
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While enjoying some me time by embracing Melbourne’s cold but welcome glimmer of sun on Sunday, I couldn’t help but think how invigorating it was.
This evolved into thinking about my week ahead—not just from a schedule perspective but also the energy I’ll need for the week.
Just as you would plug in your phone if it was depleted to replenish its battery, it is important to self-check and understand what % your energy reserves are at.
Energy isn't just about physical stamina; it encompasses mental, emotional, and spiritual components. Each aspect of our lives either contributes to or detracts from our energy reserves.
Every interaction, every conversation is either positively or negatively charged.
As healthcare professionals, especially doctors, the relentless pace of work often leaves you depleted of energy and running on empty. The demand for your expertise and care can be so consuming that more often than not it’s at the expense of your own well-being.
By recognising that everything we do, every interaction is either positively or negatively charged, we can start to influence that.
Positive Charges: Activities that invigorate and inspire us eg. time with loved ones, hobbies, exercising.
Negative Charges: Stressors and activities that drain our energy eg. work-related pressures, a phone call, unresolved conflicts, procrastination, excessive screen time, and lack of sleep.
Consideration:
Ask yourself:
By forming the habit of asking yourself these questions and having that awareness, you will start to consciously notice what positively or negatively influences your energy reserves, and even pick up on the energy of those around you.
Embrace the weekend as your time to recharge.
Prioritise activities that positively charge your energy, and consciously reduce or eliminate those that drain it.
Try the following:
1. Prioritise sleep, rest, and recovery.
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2. Engage in exercise and physical activity.
3. Incorporate and practise mindfulness and relaxation.
4. Nourish your body with a balanced diet.
5. Connect and surround yourself with positive influences.
6. Engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfilment.
Recharging and replenishing your energy is not a luxury; it’s a necessity.
Failing to replenish and recharge can have profound consequences and can lead to chronic fatigue, burnout, and decreased job satisfaction.
When our energy reserves are depleted, our ability to provide high-quality care diminishes. We become more susceptible to mistakes, less empathetic, and our overall health suffers.
Like a phone with 3% battery remaining, our efficacy is limited.
So, ask yourself..
What have I done for myself, to recharge my battery and replenish my energy today?