If you have big ambitions in life but often lack energy, say goodbye to these 8 behaviors

We all have big dreams. But what’s it really worth if we don’t have the energy to execute the plans to get us there? 

You might have big notions of starting a new business, writing a book, or recording an album, but if you’re constantly lacking energy, you’ll only make yourself feel guilty for planning and failing. 

Some behaviors only hinder you and serve as a barrier between you and getting things done.

If you have grand ambitions and you want to cultivate the energy to actually achieve them, say goodbye to these eight habits.

1) Overcommitting

It’s fantastic to be ambitious.

But being overly committed can drain your energy faster than a leaking faucet.

Think about it.

When you say ‘yes’ to everything that comes your way, you’re spreading yourself too thin. You’re trying to juggle too many balls at once and that just leaves you feeling drained.

This doesn’t mean you need to start saying ‘no’ to every opportunity. Instead, it’s about learning to prioritize. Understand what’s truly important for you and your goals, and let go of the rest.

Every ‘yes’ means a ‘no’ to something else.

So choose wisely –avoid overcommitting.

Bid goodbye to the habit of overcommitting and watch your energy levels soar. There’s a reason why the phrase “less is more” is so popular. It’s because it works!

2) Neglecting self-care

I learned this one the hard way.

There was a time when I was all about work, work, work. I thought the harder I pushed myself, the closer I’d get to achieving my big ambitions.

But boy, was I wrong!

I ended up feeling exhausted, burnt out and completely lacking in energy. My productivity dipped and my dreams seemed further away than ever.

That’s when I realized the importance of self-care. It’s not just about bubble baths and spa days. It’s about ensuring you get enough sleep, eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and take time to relax and unwind.

The moment I started taking care of myself, I saw a significant boost in my energy levels. Now, I’m more productive than ever and I’m steadily moving towards my goals.

Wave goodbye to neglecting self-care. Trust me, your future self will thank you for it!

3) Procrastination

Procrastination is a notorious energy drainer – and it can actually stem from a fear of failure. It’s like having a debt that keeps accumulating interest.

The longer you wait to tackle a task, the more daunting it becomes.

People who procrastinate have higher levels of stress and lower well-being. It’s not hard to see why.

When you procrastinate, you’re not just delaying the task at hand. You’re also carrying the mental burden of that unfinished task everywhere you go. And that can be incredibly draining.

Wave goodbye to procrastination and watch your energy levels soar.

Start by tackling the most challenging tasks first thing in the morning when your energy levels are at their peak. You’ll be amazed at the difference it makes!

4) Lack of organization

Organization is one of the soft skills of success.

Ever spent hours searching for a document you misplaced or scrambling to meet a deadline you forgot?

If so, you know first-hand how lack of organization can leave you feeling drained.

Being disorganized isn’t just about physical clutter. It’s also about mental clutter. When your mind is cluttered with a million things to remember, it can be incredibly energy-consuming.

Creating systems and processes can help. Get a planner, use digital tools, set reminders – do whatever it takes to get organized. Once everything is in its place, both physically and mentally, you’ll find you have a lot more energy to dedicate to achieving your ambitions.

If you’re often lacking energy, say goodbye to disorganization. Embrace order, and you’ll be surprised at the surge in your energy levels.

5) Ignoring your passion

There’s a certain magic that comes with doing what you truly love. It fuels your energy, lights up your spirit, and propels you towards your dreams.

But when you ignore your passions and do things just because they’re expected of you or because they’re “practical”, it can be incredibly draining.

I’m not saying you should quit your job and start painting if that’s what you love. But finding ways to incorporate your passion – even just a little – into your everyday life can make a world of difference.

If you’re feeling low on energy, take a moment to ask yourself – am I doing what I love? If the answer is no, it might be time to wave goodbye to ignoring your passion.

Because when you do what you love, it doesn’t drain your energy. It replenishes it. And that’s a powerful fuel for your ambitions.

6) Negative self-talk

One of the biggest energy drainers I’ve come across is negative self-talk. The constant criticism, the doubts, the fears – they can all take a toll on your energy levels.

Negative self-talk has detrimental effects.

I remember a time when I was my own worst critic. I’d constantly tell myself that I wasn’t good enough, that my dreams were too big, that I’d never achieve them. And it left me feeling drained and demotivated.

That’s when I realized the power of positive self-talk. Replacing those negative thoughts with positive affirmations did wonders for my energy levels.

If you’re constantly running out of energy, it might be time to say goodbye to negative self-talk. Remember, you are capable of achieving your ambitions. You just need to believe in yourself.

7) Skipping meals

Food is fuel for your body. When you skip meals, you’re essentially running on empty. It’s no wonder you’re feeling low on energy.

Eating balanced meals at regular intervals ensures your body and brain have the constant supply of nutrients they need to function optimally. When you eat well, you feel well.

If you’re often lacking energy, it might be time to say goodbye to skipping meals. Make sure you’re eating nutritious food that gives you the energy you need to chase after your big ambitions. Because, as they say, you can’t run a car without fuel!

8) Not setting boundaries

Setting boundaries is crucial to protecting your energy. When you don’t set boundaries, you allow others to dictate how you spend your time and energy. And that can leave you feeling drained and overwhelmed.

Setting boundaries doesn’t mean being selfish or rude. It’s about respecting yourself enough to say ‘no’ when needed. It’s about understanding that your time and energy are precious, and should be spent on things that bring you closer to your ambitions.

The key to achieving your big ambitions is protecting your energy, and that starts with setting healthy boundaries.

Changing habits one at a time

As Aristotle once said, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence then, is not an act but a habit.”

The habits you choose to embrace or let go of play a significant role in determining whether your ambitions will turn into reality or remain distant aspirations.

Achieving your dreams starts with the small, consistent changes you make in your daily life. Prioritize your energy, and you’ll find yourself not just planning, but accomplishing those grand ambitions.

Feeling Adrift? Pinpointing Your Values Guides You Home

Do you sometimes question what really matters most in life? Feel unclear on the principles that should steer your decisions and path ahead?

It’s so easy to lose sight of our core values. Those essential truths that align our outer world with profound inner purpose.

That’s why life coach Jeanette Brown designed this simple yet illuminating values exercise. To help you define the 5 values most central to who you are.

In just a few minutes, this free download leads you to:

  • Discover what matters to you more than money or status
  • Clarify the ideals your choices should reflect
  • Create a guiding light to inform major life decisions

With your values crystallized, you’ll move through the world with intention, confidence, and meaning.

Stop drifting and download the Free PDF to anchor yourself to purpose. Let your values direct you home.

 

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Ethan Sterling

Ethan Sterling has a background in entrepreneurship, having started and managed several small businesses. His journey through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship provides him with practical insights into personal resilience, strategic thinking, and the value of persistence. Ethan’s articles offer real-world advice for those looking to grow personally and professionally.

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