We all know that afternoons can be a chaotic time. Whether it’s the rush to finish work tasks, the need to prepare dinner, or the hustle and bustle of kids coming home from school, it can often feel like a whirlwind of activity.
But what if I told you that by making a few simple changes, you can transform your afternoons from chaotic to calm? In this post, I’m going to share 10 things that I stopped doing that have made my afternoons significantly calmer.
1. Skipping Lunch
Ah, the notorious lunch skipper. I have been guilty of this more times than I can count. I thought that powering through my work without a break would help me get more done. But in reality, all it did was leave me feeling drained and irritable by mid-afternoon.
Now, I make it a point to take a proper lunch break every day. Not only does this give me a much-needed break to recharge, but it also helps me maintain my energy levels throughout the afternoon. So, if you’re a chronic lunch skipper, try taking a proper lunch break. Your afternoons will thank you.
2. Overloading My To-Do List
I used to cram as many tasks as possible into my afternoons, thinking that I was being productive. But what I found was that I was often rushing from one task to another, feeling stressed and overwhelmed.
Now, I limit my to-do list to three main tasks for the afternoon. This allows me to focus on each task fully and reduces feelings of overwhelm. Remember, it’s not about how many tasks you complete, but about the quality of your work.
3. Neglecting Hydration
I used to forget to drink water in the afternoons. This would often leave me feeling sluggish and tired. But once I committed to staying hydrated throughout the day, I noticed a huge difference in my energy levels and mood.
Now, I always have a water bottle on my desk and make it a point to refill it at least once in the afternoon. Not only does this help me stay hydrated, but it also serves as a reminder to take a quick break and stretch my legs.
4. Skipping Exercise
I used to think that I didn’t have time to exercise in the afternoons. But I realized that even a short walk or a quick workout can do wonders for my mood and energy levels.
Now, I make sure to include some form of exercise in my afternoon routine. Whether it’s a brisk walk around the block or a quick yoga session, getting my body moving helps me feel more energic and focused.
5. Consuming Too Much Caffeine
I used to rely on afternoon coffee to keep me going. But I found that this often led to a mid-afternoon crash, leaving me feeling even more tired.
Now, I opt for caffeine-free options like herbal tea or infused water. These not only help me stay hydrated but also prevent the dreaded afternoon slump.
6. Multitasking
I used to pride myself on being able to juggle multiple tasks at once. But I realized that this was actually causing me more stress and reducing the quality of my work.
Now, I focus on one task at a time. This helps me stay focused and reduces feelings of overwhelm. Remember, it’s not about how many tasks you complete, but about the quality of your work.
7. Neglecting Self-Care
I used to put self-care on the back burner, thinking that I didn’t have time for it in the afternoons. But I realized that taking care of myself is not a luxury, but a necessity.
Now, I make sure to include some form of self-care in my afternoon routine. Whether it’s taking a few minutes to meditate, read a book, or simply sit in silence, taking time for myself helps me stay grounded and focused.
8. Working Non-Stop
I used to work non-stop throughout the afternoon, thinking that this was the most productive way to work. But all this did was leave me feeling burned out and exhausted.
Now, I make sure to take regular breaks throughout the afternoon. This not only helps me recharge but also boosts my productivity and focus.
9. Ignoring My Body’s Signals
I used to ignore my body’s signals of hunger, tiredness, or stress. But I’ve learned that these signals are my body’s way of telling me that it needs something.
Now, I pay attention to these signals and respond accordingly. Whether it’s taking a break, eating a snack, or doing a quick stretch, listening to my body helps me stay in tune with my needs and enhances my overall well-being.
10. Neglecting My Environment
I used to neglect my environment, thinking that it didn’t have much impact on my mood or productivity. But I’ve learned that a clutter-free and comfortable environment can make a huge difference.
Now, I make sure to keep my workspace clean and organized. I also add elements that make me happy, like plants or a favorite photo. This not only helps me stay focused but also enhances my mood and productivity. So, take a look around your space and see what changes you can make to create a more calming environment.
