Why we need to manage our energy - not just our time

Are you managing your energy - or your time?

For many the summer holidays will bring extra pressure and demands on time. So, it seems simple to just work more hours to keep on top of things. The problem is that this isn't sustainable or productive long-term. Time is a finite resource, and what we really need isn't more time, but more energy.

On my 3 Peaks Run in 2020 I fell behind schedule by day three. That meant running extra long days to try and catch up the mileage, which isn't easy when you're running an average of 50 miles per day to finish in a record time.

Every extra 10 minutes of running each day was 10 minutes I wasn't resting and sleeping, which had a knock-on effect the next day, and the next. I started making mistakes, getting injuries, slowing down, and losing even more time.

The distance you can run in one hour is dependent on lots of variables, in the same way that our energy ebbs and flows. Ever noticed how a task can take 3 or 4 times longer than if we recharged and started it fresh tomorrow?

More recently, dealing with chronic fatigue has taught me a lot about being intentional with where I spend my energy.

Here's a few things I learnt:

1. Breathwork: download the free 'Breathwrk' app and just a couple of minutes can get you out of the reactive 'fight or flight' state which depletes our batteries much faster.
2. Don't underestimate mental fatigue: Zoom calls, making decisions, listening to podcasts and small talk can be equally exhausting than physical activity. On the 3 Peaks there were days when I couldn't handle conversation and needed silence. This may be harder if you have kids, so please read on...
3. Work in short bursts: set a timer to take a break every 90-120 mins (the ultradian rhythm) before you lose concentration, instead of trying to power through. On the 3 Peaks Run I split the route into consistent 10km sections with a refuel at my support vehicle.
4. Set the boundaries: where possible block out empty time to recharge between tasks. Every night I would have a designated finish time, regardless of how far I had covered by that point. On the final night I broke this rule - and ended up falling asleep in a bus stop.
5. Get moving: taking a break for a 20-minute walk, star jumps on the spot, or anything that elevates your heart rate is a natural energiser without adding to fatigue. But maybe not running 50 miles...

How are you managing your energy over the summer holidays? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments.