///// ARE THERE ENERGY THIEVES AT WORK IN YOUR DAILY LIFE? /////

HOW DOES YOUR DESK LOOK?

These days there is an overabundance of information and stimuli, and the overload negatively affects decisionmaking, productivity, and well-being. The brain has to decide what is important and what is not, and the more stimuli there are to process, the more fatigued we get. A messy desk contributes to the avalanche of stimuli with which the brain must contend. So do yourself a favor and straighten things up before you start your day’s work.

DO YOU GET ENOUGH EXERCISE?

Researchers have found those who get regular exercise are generally healthier and more alert. The Mayo Clinic recommendation: “Get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity per week, or a combination of moderate and vigorous activity.” Your body and mind will thank you.

HOW MUCH LIGHT DO YOU NEED?

In the depths of winter many workers must make their way to work in the dark. This interferes with the body’s neurotransmitters. Just as sunlight triggers production of the hormone serotonin, which boosts our mood and helps us focus, lack of light triggers production of the sleep-promoting hormone melatonin. Low serotonin is associated with seasonal affective disorder. Get at least 30 minutes of outside time per day, even on cloudy days.

DO YOU AIR OUT THE ROOM?

Carbon dioxide levels tend to rise in poorly ventilated rooms, and high levels can promote fatigue. A study at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory found high classroom CO2 levels correlate with poor concentration and increased student absence. Opening the windows for just 5 minutes per day can significantly reduce CO2.

WHERE DO YOU PUT YOUR PHONE AT NIGHT?

Backlit electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and computers, can disrupt the body’s biological clock. The blue light they emit interferes with the production of melatonin, thereby decreasing feelings of sleepiness, so it’s best to turn off your devices an hour before bedtime.