How to Get Energy if You're Tired

Many people find themselves tired in the afternoons almost to the point of exhaustion. If you're dragging at the office, one of the worst things you can do is reach for an energy drink. If you really want to get energy when you're tired, follow these steps, and you can feel a renewed sense of energy while others are catnapping at their desks.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Eat small. A big, heavy lunch always drains you of energy in the afternoon, so eat snacks or small meals throughout the day to keep your blood sugar up. Or, when you go out to lunch, eat a small portion and then take the rest in a to-go box to snack on mid-afternoon for a quick pick-me-up.
2. Drink plenty of water. Dehydration can make you lethargic and tired, so instead of grabbing that energy drink or soda, fill up on water instead. Caffeinated beverages can actually dehydrate you faster, which is why you often find yourself crashing hours later when the effects wear off. If you drink a lot of caffeine after 3 p.m., it can also inhibit your sleep at night, leaving you feeling tired the next day.
3. Move around. While you might feel too tired to exercise, it's usually just the thing you need to up your energy. A quick jog around the block or even a few jumping jacks may be enough to get your blood pumping and give you the boost of adrenaline you need to finish your day.
4. Engage in a little chit-chat. If you find yourself nodding off while working on a spreadsheet, get up from your desk and head down the hall for a little gossip therapy. A change of scenery and some good conversation will give you a burst of energy to finish those reports.