Keith drives a service truck for a portable sanitation company, and although he thoroughly enjoys his job, he has noticed a gripping lack of energy during the workday. This is a recent occurrence in his life, since he has always prided himself on his energetic disposition. As a matter of fact, it was this particular characteristic that enabled him to obtain his last salary increase. Now he wonders what is happening and how he can reverse this lack of enthusiasm that is so troubling.
Keith is certainly not alone in this dilemma. It seems to be a universal problem and, unfortunately, is not always confined to the workplace. Studies indicate almost 45 percent of people complain about a lower level of energy most of the time. Lack of energy, if not addressed, can lead to a lower quality of productivity and decreased motivation — problems that could result in losing a promotion at work or even a job.
TAKING CARE
As an employer, you want to promote good health in your workers. Employees who take care of their nutrition and exercise needs are more productive members of your team, helping your company reach its goals. They also have fewer sick days and will have a positive impact on your company’s health insurance costs if you provide that benefit to workers.
Here are some successful approaches to handling the tiresome problem of losing energy. Pass them along to your employees and watch them trim down, perk up and strengthen the business.
Eat a nourishing nutritional breakfast.
Too many people eat breakfast on the run or maybe skip it altogether. This is simply not a good choice since breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It is essential in establishing your frame of mind, both mentally and physically, for the rest of the day. Thus, breakfast should consist of good proteins and carbohydrates such as fruit, an omelet, and whole wheat toast. Skimping on this crucial meal will drag you down by mid-morning.
Make your first break count.
If you have a caffeinated pick-me-up drink or chocolate bar, you may obtain some temporary energy, but by mid-afternoon you will be fighting those yawns. Keep some healthy snacks on hand, such as crackers and cheese or nuts and raisins. These types of foods combine protein and carbohydrates — hence they will aid in your quest for energy and help stave off hunger until lunchtime.
Drink plenty of water.
Many times we think we are hungry or we may feel a headache approaching — both conditions can lead to loss of energy. These symptoms could be due to simple dehydration — lack of enough water in your system. This is especially a risk for your route drivers and technicians, who are on the go all day servicing restrooms during the busy summer season. Encourage these workers to drink 6-8 glasses of water daily to ensure they won’t feel the effects of dehydration and will maintain a high energy level.
Stretch out.
If work confines you or your office staff to a desk most of the day, get up every hour and stretch for a couple of minutes. This will revitalize and energize you, make you feel better, and help to relieve those aching muscles in the neck and lower back.
Breath deeply.
If you and your crew are working through a particularly stressful period — planning service for a big special event or dealing with a crisis — you need to make deep breathing part of your day. It’s fast, easy and you can even do this while sitting at your desk. Take three very deep breaths consistently during the course of the day to help energize you and feel less stressed.
Walk those extra steps.
Exercise is a proven factor in obtaining more get-up-and-go. And you can enjoy the benefits of regular exercise without making a special trip to the gym. Rather than drive your car or truck to work everyday, can you walk or ride a bike when the weather and your schedule allows? If you drive to work or to run errands, park at the far end of the parking lot and take a few extra steps.
Eat a light, healthy lunch.
Skip the sauces, desserts, and heavier types of meals. Instead opt for a salad with chicken or a tuna fish sandwich on whole wheat bread. And save the soda or alcoholic beverage for another time. The sugar in those drinks will boost your blood sugar levels for a short time and then send them crashing down. Eating a lighter and healthier lunch almost guarantees your body will not have to expend extra energy in the digestion process, which will further deplete those reserves.
Enjoy a few laughs.
It has been proven that humor mitigates stress and that positive thoughts and laughter promote good energy. Start looking at that glass half full and laugh at life’s smaller problems rather than taking them to heart. These are both panaceas for your heart and your energy.
Get a good night’s sleep.
Sleep has been referred to as a mini-vacation for your body, since your body repairs itself while you rest. Some constructive means to achieve an improved sleep experience are exercise, meditation, yoga, or eating less food in the evening. Waking up in the morning ready to take on the day presents an extremely powerful tool for putting the oomph back in your body.
A FINAL WORD
So if your vitality, or the vitality of your staff is on the wane, and you’re ready to call it a day first thing in the morning, try these proven methods. They will help to replenish your tank, and you will be able to call on that newfound energy to carry you through the day.
