Your Energy Drains Are Costing You More Than You Realise

Not all tasks are created equal. Some leave us feeling motivated, while others quietly sap our energy. In a busy workweek, it’s easy to power through without noticing the difference. 

Understanding what drains you versus what restores you is a powerful way to protect your energy and prevent burnout before it takes hold.

Recognising the patterns

When you start observing your daily work habits, you may notice that certain tasks leave you feeling sluggish or distracted. Others, however, can energise you and make the day feel lighter.

This awareness is key. It allows you to make small adjustments, prioritising tasks that restore energy and managing those that deplete it.

How to identify your energy drains

Try these steps to become more aware of what affects your energy:

1️⃣ Track your tasks

For a few days, jot down what you do and how it makes you feel afterwards.

2️⃣ Notice patterns

Look for repeated activities that leave you feeling tired, frustrated, or stressed.

3️⃣ Prioritise restoration

Schedule or batch tasks that energise you, and build mini breaks around tasks that are draining.

4️⃣ Make small shifts

Even small adjustments, like delegating, rescheduling, or taking a short pause, can protect your energy significantly.

Taking control of your energy

Once you recognise what drains you, it becomes easier to create a workday that supports your wellbeing. Combining awareness with small, intentional resets helps you sustain focus, stay motivated, and prevent burnout over time.

At Thrivemind Journal, we encourage reflection practices alongside these strategies. Noting your energy highs and lows in a journal can provide insight, help you plan restorative moments, and keep you in tune with your mental and physical wellbeing.

Your energy is valuable. Paying attention to it ensures that your workday is productive without costing your health.