How to Get Energised

TO BE THE BEST YOU

Everyone wants to be the best version of themselves – yet we live in a whirlwind world that all too often seems to take our energy. So we don’t do many of the things we know we need to do. Thankfully, there are several simple things that anyone can do to get extraordinarily energised.

WORDS DAVID HURST

When somebody comes to see me – whether that’s to beat anxiety, depression, get a boost to achieve something new or because of a life change such as a relationship break-up, I frequently start with suggesting some proven successful methods. There are others as well – but here are definitely some of the most effective energisers.

GET UP EARLIER

It might not make sense to start the day 30 minutes sooner, especially if you’re lacking energy. But it is extremely beneficial to do this – so that you don’t rush into each day. Starting calmly, with meditation is best. Breathe slowly, relax and be mindful of things such as your breathing or the view.

Also, I always suggest that people stop looking at social media and the news as soon as you open your eyes. Don’t run through all those things that need to be done that day either. These will only steal positive energy.

KEEP IT IN THE DAY

In fact, keeping it in the present moment is the most energising way of all to live. Having regrets about the past or worries for the future only steals positive energy for the present. Nobody can change the past or predict the future.

So living in the past or the future will often create negative feelings. These feelings will cause more negative thoughts and put you in a vicious circle. Instead, keep it in the day you’re in right now.

THINK POSITIVE

As stoic philosopher Marcus Aurelius said: “The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.”

This can sound too simple, especially to someone suffering from anxiety or depression. But the fact is everyone has a choice over which thoughts to focus on out of the 4,000 or so we have every waking hour. Make sure to ignore the negative ones and listen to the positive. Writing a gratitude list is a fantastic way to get positive. This is writing several things for which you’re grateful – such as your friends and the sunshine.

Saying positive affirmations helps many people too. These are words such as: “I have many strengths” and “I can.” Write a daily gratitude list and say positive affirmations even – or perhaps especially – if you don’t feel like it.

Another energy booster is to ensure you’re around people who are positive. Choose people who are for you.

BE KIND TO YOURSELF

This means eating plenty of fresh fruit and veg. Don’t rush meals or eat too much as digesting will take up energy – and being greedy is never emotionally good for us.

Make sure to exercise most days. On seeing and feeling the benefits, it will increase self-esteem and boost energy.

If you’re drinking too much or taking mood-altering drugs, consider that you may need to cut down or stop. If it proves difficult or seemingly impossible to cut down, you probably need to stop.

Consider if you’re working too many hours. If you are, you really need to find ways to work less.

Ensure to sleep serenely too. Going to bed at a regular time will help. If you still have trouble sleeping, seek professional help. Likewise with cutting down or quitting anything.

DO WHAT INSPIRES YOU

Be generous with time, money, qualities and talents. When you give, you gain – because giving always leaves people feeling positive inside. This boosts energy.

Never be scared of using talents either – after all, you’ve been given them for good reason. Many people don’t use a talent though because they’re too influenced by cultural and family expectations. This is why so many people climb the ladder of success, but always know deep down that it’s up against the wrong wall.

If we’re doing something that inspires us, we’ll always have great energy. Then we can live the life we truly want – and be who we really can be.

David Hurst is a Wellbeing Coach with four books published on emotional and mental health recovery, including 12 Steps To 1 Hero and The Anxiety Conversation. He has also written for publications around the world including The Times, The Guardian, Psychologies, Esquire and Marie Claire. To find out more or contact David to see how he can help you or someone you love, visit: david-hurst.com