Three Easy Ways for an Afternoon Pick Me Up

What do you do when you feel that afternoon slump? Grab a soda and candy bar? I suppose that would help for maybe 10 minutes and then you will experience an even bigger crash!

These are three sure ways to overcome that slump and ride high the rest of the afternoon.

1. This first trick is shockingly simple, and there’s a huge bonus…you will brighten someone else’s day too. Take a break from your work and pay someone else a genuine compliment. It doesn’t take long – just a minute – and you can do it just about anywhere.

Maybe your co-worker is doing a fantastic job with a big project, or someone on a committee is crushing it with an event, or your spouse looks especially nice today. Maybe you are running errands, and    you see an incredible pair of shoes on a stranger.

There is actual science behind this. A study published in the Harvard Business Review showed that a positive interpersonal reaction will boost your energy WAY more than a snickers bar or a cup  of        coffee. And it makes someone else’s day too. Do me a favor, the next time you feel tired, pay someone a genuine compliment.

2. This one is easier if you work from home or can shut your door at the office. Pull out your favorite playlist and take a few minutes to dance (or twirl your baton.) I firmly believe that everyone needs a playlist of their favorite songs. Mine is a list of songs from the 1980’s. I miss the 80’s. Those songs always take me back to big hair, big shoulder pads and simpler times. Even making the playlist will energize you.

3. Take a power nap. Science suggests that a 15-20 minute nap can help restore energy and focus. But if you sleep more than one hour, you find that a nap leaves you feeling groggy and unable to sleep at night. Set an alarm so you don’t oversleep. Or meditate if you have meditation practice. Meditation can help clear your mind and allow you to refocus. Even just taking a few deep breaths or box breaths can boost your energy levels and help clear out brain fog. It can also help reduce stress and anxiety.

The more sleep-deprived you are, the greater the effect of the post-lunch dip. Re-energize your afternoon and be sure to get sufficient sleep at night.