Simple Ways to Avoid Common Energy Drains
Halfway through my cup of coffee, my son bounced into the room.
“Mom, let’s play!” he chirped, his energy levels soaring.
I looked at him, then at my barely sipped coffee, and sighed. “Give me five minutes, sweetheart. Mom’s battery is low.”
He tilted his head, confused. “You don’t have a battery!”
If only he knew.
The Hidden Energy Drains in Our Daily Lives
As parents, educators, and caregivers, we often focus so much on what our children need that we forget to check in on our own energy levels. Like a phone that lags when too many apps run in the background, our brains struggle when constantly drained. And the trickiest part? Most energy drains aren’t obvious.
Here are some sneaky ways your energy might be slipping away:
1⃣ Over-Scheduling: Juggling work, school runs, therapy appointments, homework, and meals—sound familiar? When every moment is planned, there’s no room to breathe.
2⃣ Decision Fatigue: What’s for dinner? Which activity should we do? Should I allow screen time? The constant decision-making throughout the day wears us down without realizing it.
3⃣ Overstimulation: Bright lights, noisy toys, non-stop notifications, and the million thoughts racing in your mind—sensory overload isn’t just for kids!
4⃣ Emotional Load: Thinking about your child’s progress, worrying about the future, replaying past conversations—your mind never takes a break.
5⃣ Lack of Boundaries: Saying yes to everything and everyone? That’s a one-way ticket to burnout.
How to Avoid These Energy Drains
The good news? You don’t need a full-on life overhaul. Small shifts can help you protect your energy and reclaim your focus.
The 3D Rule – Do It, Delegate It, or Delete It
When faced with a task, ask yourself:
Do I need to do this now? If yes, tackle it.Can someone else do this? If yes, delegate it.Does this even need to be done? If not, delete it from your list. Anchor Your Decisions
Reduce decision fatigue by pre-deciding certain things. For example:
Create a meal plan for the week, so you’re not scrambling at dinnertime.Set a daily routine for your child, including structured play, sensory breaks, and quiet time.Automate small choices like what to wear by having a few go-to outfits ready. Sensory Breaks for You, Too!
If kids need sensory breaks, guess what? You do, too. Try:
Stepping outside for two minutes of fresh air.Playing music while doing chores.Shaking off stress with a 10-second wiggle dance (yes, really!). Check Your Energy Budget
Imagine your energy as a bank account. Ask yourself throughout the day:
Is this task of depositing or withdrawing energy?What’s one small thing I can do to recharge?A Fun Challenge for You!
Take a quick 5-minute Energy Check-In! Jot down three things that leave you feeling drained and three that help recharge you. Then, commit to removing (or reducing) one energy drain this week and adding one energy booster.
Drop a comment below and share your most significant energy drain—let’s tackle them together!
You can’t give your best to others if you’re empty. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s necessary.
Need more support? Book a 1:1 consultation with me here, and let’s find solutions tailored to you and your child.
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