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I sit in an area of the office that does not get much natural light. There are no windows and not a lot of traffic comes by my desk. Because of this, I sometimes find it a real challenge to get past the dreaded 3 PM energy crash. Often, I am tired and hungry and find it challenging to really focus around this time of day. I am confident that many people have been in this similar situation so I would like to present you some of the ways I help combat the crash.

Drink Lots of Water

Keeping yourself hydrated keeps your energy up and also helps keep you healthy. I personally use larger bottles for my water and I keep the drink right next to me because if I see water – I drink water.

Have a snack

I can’t help but get very hungry every day around 3 PM. Having a light snack will help keep you focused on the tasks at hand and not the hunger in your stomach.

Take A Break

This goes along with having a snack but many studies are available that point out the advantages of taking a quick break. Grab some food and refocus. You will return back to your work with increased energy and maybe some much needed focus.

Pop, Coffee, Tea

While I still think water throughout the day is your best choice; these caffeinated alternatives are as effective as they are classic.

Move

Get up and move around. Take a quick walk – maybe to fill up your water bottle. Stepping away from my desk for a couple of minutes really reenergizes me and allows me to get more done upon my return to my desk. Maybe you could do some pushups or stretches in your cubical. Get the blood and ideas flowing again!

Get More Sleep!

A good nights sleep goes along way when it comes to productivity. I know it’s the NHL and NBA playoffs but all of those late nights could really be having an effect on your ability to avoid the 3PM crash.

Watch What You Eat at Lunch.

There is no afternoon nap time and just like turkey dinner – if you eat too much you will be wanting to fall asleep all afternoon.

Move to where there is light and energy.

Nothing helps wake you up then being around really energetic people. You just have to make sure it’s not too much of a distraction.

Take a deep breath

Take 3 deep breaths. Now how do you feel? Calm? Relaxed? Focused? I thought so.

All of these methods help me stay focused and avoid a mid afternoon energy crash. What methods do you use?

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