How do you create more mental energy?
Although many occupations and roles require time for decision making, we don’t build in time for rest, workout breaks, and thinking. Anyone who has had to make frequent, critical decisions throughout the day understands the importance of this. One of the most productive ways to think is during exercise. I wrote about this decision fatigue in my last post, here. You see, physical energy helps mental functioning.
According to Dr. Scott McGinnis, instructor of neurology at Harvard Medical School, “There’s a lot of science behind this.” Studies find that the parts of the brain responsible for memory and thinking are larger in people who exercise. Exercise also improves mood and sleep, which affect our mental energy.
Another way to replenish your mental energy is to take a break from the actual thinking: complete an unrelated task, play a simple game, daydream, or meditate. Varying activities to stimulate different parts of your brain creates more mental energy. Even simple changes like reversing items on your desk from the left to the right, and vice-versa, can boost mental energy, creativity, and innovation.
Studies also find a strong correlation between productivity and positive thinking. Personally, I find this to be one of best tools to boost my mental energy. When I remind myself of my true values, my organization’s mission, and my personal purpose, I can trigger my drive, re-ignite my passion, and boost my energy.
Boost Your Mental Energy
When this topic comes up in coaching conversations, we discuss the techniques of:
- Mental preparation: Willingness and optimism are key for mental toughness. Identify, control, and manage emotions. Be aware, and curious.
- Visualization: See yourself succeed. Rehearse all the preparation and steps you will need to take to succeed. Visualize obstacles, and how you overcome them.
- Meditation: Develop a practice of mindfulness or meditation. Begin with short sessions that focus on your breath, and grow your practice.
- Introspection: What are you strengths? Where are your blind spots and bias? What is holding you back?
- Reflection: Make time to feel feelings, process new experiences and information, and reflect on lessons learned. Ask for help when you need it. It can be most helpful to work with an experienced, trusted advisor.
Mental Energy for Organizations
One of the organizations with which I have had the privilege and pleasure to work provides spaces where employees can disengage for brief periods of time (5 – 60 minutes) to recharge their mental energy. To support a meditative atmosphere, these quiet zones offer comfortable seating, floor cushions, and soft lighting. The space also discourages food and beverages, electronic devices, conversation, and other distractions.
What do you think? How do you create more mental energy? I’d love to hear from you. You can reach me here, on LinkedIn, or give me a call: 561-582-6060.
