Time management gets all the attention, but energy management might be the secret sauce — in leadership roles where constant context-switching is a curse.
Over time, I’ve learned to manage my energy alongside my time. Here are a few practical approaches that have worked for me:
1. Knowing Your Energy Boosters and Drainers
You will observe that some tasks energise you and some drain you.
For example, in my case, my list was something like:
- Energising: Mentoring, brainstorming, planning, connecting dots.
- Draining: Project tracking, creating decks, Excel data crunching, status meetings.
Identifying and classifying them is the key.
Note: Even tasks you enjoy can sometimes drain you, so pay attention.
2. Staggering Tasks
Avoid scheduling too many draining tasks back-to-back. I mix in energising activities to recharge.
That said, find your rhythm—some people prefer finishing draining tasks all at once.
3. Delegate
Pass on tasks that don’t excite you but can help others grow. For instance, I delegate the first draft of planning documents and management presentations to my team members—they see this as a great learning opportunity, and I free up energy for other work.
4. Taking Energy Breaks
When I feel drained, I reset by:
- Walking around the office or parks nearby. Mind resets quickly when the environment changes.
- Doing a quick sprint (even 300 meters works!).
- Sitting quietly without distractions—no phone, no overthinking.
5. Mixing Up Your Meetings
Standing during meetings can restore lost energy (when I’m not too tired). Sometimes I walk around the room, but only if it doesn’t distract others.
6. Planning for Recovery
After intense meetings, I block 10-15 minutes to regroup before jumping into the next task.
7. Scheduling Creative Work Wisely
Creative tasks need focus. I never sandwich them between meetings. Instead, I tackle them:
- Early morning (strictly before checking emails/Slack).
- Late evening (when it’s quiet and distractions are fewer).
While you can’t avoid urgent tasks entirely, you should be able to limit them to 20% of your time. Build the rest of your schedule around these principles.
What strategies do you use to conserve energy at work? Please share them in the comments.
