Photography by Payton Butler from Dupe
It's not rare for us to feel that we've used up all the energy and effort we could give at the end of the day, and much to our dismay, sometimes we feel like we didn't even give time and energy to what truly matters to us.
When this happens, we often chalk it up to the usual tiredness after taking on day-to-day to-do lists. However, when this goes unacknowledged, it could pile up and leave us dissatisfied. We can feel that our productivity is unwavering, but instead of feeling fulfillment and purpose, we feel like there's a missing puzzle piece just waiting to fit in the big picture.
If you find that this happens to you quite a lot, there may be a need to identify, accept, and redistribute energy and time to where it matters. Here's how to do it:
Find What Gives You Energy— and What Drains It
Photography by Tawny Dere from Dupe
Whether it's seeing brightness around you, or getting that extra spring in your step from getting a kick of endorphins, knowing where you get positive energy from is a great way to know what matters to you.
The great thing about this is it's totally different for everyone, so you have a lot of space to discover what gives you energy. It could come in the form of:
Connecting with a loved one, a friend, or a significant other
Making sure your body got moving (and sweating)
Getting your hands busy
Doing something that enriches your mind or inspires
Getting restful sleep
Immersing yourself in nature
...and more!
Be cautious, however, as without care and mindfulness, these could easily also become energy drainers. Try to focus on the little details and feel everything when finding out which of these aspects give you energy. When connecting with loved ones, who gives you the feeling of being welcomed and listened to? What types of movement challenge you in a healthy way? What types of tactile activities are right for your resources right now?
Sprinkle Them Throughout The Week
Photography by Halley Morlock from Dupe
The most important thing about feeling fulfilled about where we dedicate our energy is ensuring we insert it throughout our entire week. Start with what you can commit daily instead of focusing on big actions. To give you an idea, if you draw energy from connecting with others, try to plan 5-minute calls with your friends or routine errand dates with your significant other. Remember that coffee and restaurant dates are always great, but it may not be something that's achievable in terms of consistency.
If you're someone who loves immersing yourself in nature, try to go on quick nature walks, or even start your own little garden to tend to when walks seem a little harder on some days!
Repeat
Photography by Erica Scime from Dupe
Now that you've nailed down what gives you energy, it's important to keep going at it. Remember that these are the things that you've identified as things that matter. Nurturing your connections is a priority if you love being able to spend time with others. Your physical health matters to you if you find that the kick of endorphins makes your day. Creation matters to you if you feel joy in getting your hands busy with whatever crafts or projects you start. Most likely, the things that bring us joy are the missing pieces and are huge indicators of what truly matters to you.
Remember, the principle of being able to distribute these practices is in the name of making it a norm— not just when you're feeling down, or depleted.
No Need For Escape
We are true believers of the creating a life that you won’t have to escape from because the good things are so generously spread out throughout it. Try it out for yourself. Craft a life where every little thing you do matters and gives you life back.