Last Updated on September 20, 2017 by Karen
This shop has been compensated by CollectiveBias, Inc. on behalf of its advertiser, ZonePerfect. #MyLittleWins #CollectiveBias
Here are 7 simple ways to overcome that midday slump quickly and effectively, so you can keep the momentum going for the rest of the day.
Is there anything worse than the midday slump? It’s been hitting me hard lately to be honest. After lunch, my energy level dips, my productivity is gone, and it feels as though I can’t possibly get anything done for the rest of the day.
Instead of reaching for a cup of coffee or head over to the nearest vending machine for a sugary drink or candy bar, I’ve decided to make some changes to get rid of my bad habits. Developing good habits and making healthier choices throughout the day often require conscious effort – all these Little Wins™ count and are worth celebrating!
Here are 7 tricks that help me stay energized and be productive through the end of the day:
1. Avoid relying on caffeine for a quick fix
Coffee and tea provide a quick jolt of energy, but after the effect of the caffeine wears off, it will leave you feeling even more tired later in the day. Plus, if you have too much caffeine in the afternoon, it could make it harder for you to get a restful sleep.
2. Drinking plenty of water
When you’re dehydrated, you’re more likely to feel exhausted and sluggish. Instead of reaching for a cup of tea, coffee, or soda, try herbal teas, decaffeinated coffee and sparkling water with a slice of lemon.
3. Don’t skip breakfast
Eat a well-rounded breakfast for sustained energy throughout the day and avoid an energy crash come 2pm.
4. Get up and stretch
Take a short break when you feel your midday slump is setting in to do some stretching exercises. Release any tension in your neck and shoulders, roll your shoulders forward and backward in big circles, and take a few deep breathes — promise you’ll feel more refreshed afterwards.
5. Go for a walk
Take a walk in the middle of the day to get some fresh air and sunshine, then come back ready to tackle the next task on your to-do list. Not only will it boost your energy, it’ll improve your mood too!
6. Switch tasks to stay focused
Sometimes doing the same thing for a long period of time can lead to fatigue. Try switching to different tasks to refresh your focus — sometimes I will take a break from the computer and return phone calls or jot down some notes instead. The change of task definitely helps keep me alert and energized.
7. Snack wisely
My favorite afternoon snacks are fresh fruits paired with a handful of nuts, a hardboiled egg, or a protein bar. I avoid sugary treats like candy bars and cookies, which might give you a temporary boost, but once that sugar high is gone, you’ll feel more exhausted than before.
I don’t always have enough time in the day to make my own nutritious snacks and when I’m on the go, or just in need of a mid-afternoon break, I am glad to have these ZonePerfect® bars on hand to help me power through the day and accomplish my Little Wins™!
These bars – which come in a variety of delicious flavors like ZonePerfect® Dark Chocolate Almond and ZonePerfect® Fudge Graham – are full of vitamins and minerals and the perfect combination of protein and carbs. Instead of grabbing a candy bar, grab a ZonePerfect® bar next time you’re at Walmart. Be sure to sign up for Ibotta and earn $1.00 with the purchase of ZonePerfect® Nutrition Bars at Walmart.
Interested in finding these ZonePerfect® bars for your next adventure? Hover over the photo below to click through to Walmart.com and buy them!
Do you have any tricks for beating the midday slump and getting through the day with Little Wins™?
