Lately, I’ve been feeling really tired, and I realized I need to find some solutions to deal with this constant fatigue. I’m at that stage where I have so many things to do, and it’s been going on for so long that my brain just jumps from one task to another. I often find myself unable to finish even simple things because I’m already thinking about the next one. It feels like a spiral that never ends.
Of course, I’ve read plenty of articles with the usual advice—which I’m sure can help—but I also wanted to think about my own approach. Maybe it can inspire someone else too. For me, it’s about identifying:
- Things I can do right away
- Habits I can slowly build
- Changes I need to make to free up more time
Because let’s be honest: more time = more rest = more productivity.
It’s time to break this endless cycle of exhaustion.
Here’s my personal list:
Things to Do Right Away
- Reduce dopamine traps – Less scrolling, more time to rest. What works for me is simply not having my phone with me all the time. I block certain apps, limit myself to 10 minutes a day, and uninstall some completely.
- Automate tasks – Automate payments, set reminders, and organize your time so you can actually rest instead of running after small things. For example, we have a diaper subscription for my son. I also use email filters and even have a separate account for shopping to keep my inbox clean and reduce mental clutter.
- Cut down on caffeine – Stick to one or two coffees a day, or switch to matcha in the afternoon.
- Limit TV and ads – Honestly, I hate TV. Or more precisely, I hate the ads. You’re calmly watching something, and suddenly you get hit by a loud commercial that repeats over and over so you won’t forget it… until you dream about it at night. I just can’t anymore, so we switched to Netflix or streaming without ads. Avoid them at all costs.
- Clean and declutter your space – If there’s one thing I’m good at, it’s throwing things away—it’s my guilty pleasure. There’s nothing better than clear surfaces. Sell unused clothes or objects, say goodbye to what you don’t need, and make space for what matters.
- Declutter your mailbox – An empty inbox feels amazing—no emergencies piling up, no anxiety about unfinished tasks.
- Boost energy with enjoyable activities – Take a break and do something you love. Sometimes even a couple of hours can completely reset your energy.
- Block push notifications – Turn them off. Have you noticed how now every app—and even browsers!—ask if they can send you notifications? Just block them. I once saw a documentary on the impact of notifications on kids, and honestly, they should be avoided at all costs.
- Make grocery shopping easier – Avoid exhausting malls, prefer local stores and markets, or try delivery apps like Drive or Jow. We recently used one for the first time—paying one euro saved us an entire hour of shopping. One hour of my time is definitely worth one euro.
- Finish tasks instead of postponing them – We don’t always have the luxury of coming back later. Spend those few minutes now so you don’t have to revisit the task. Tell yourself: “I don’t have the luxury to come back to this—it has to be done now.”
- Drink more water – Classic but true. Keep a big glass nearby, and make it fun: add fruit, lemon, or mint.
- Eat healthier – Choose water over soda, salads and vegetables over plain sandwiches, and nutritious meals over empty carbs.
Things That Will Take Some Time
- Start exercising again – Whether it’s gentle workouts or pilates, it’s something I plan to start right after finishing my postpartum recovery (I gave birth 10 months ago). Moving more should help me regain energy and handle fatigue better.
- Manage stress – Consider seeing a psychologist to better understand and cope with stress.
- Meditate – I’ve never tried, but I’m willing to start.
- Be kinder to yourself – We’re often nicer to others than to ourselves. Plan small joyful moments, like a massage or a quiet coffee.
- Adjust your sleep schedule – Go to bed earlier so you can have 40–60 minutes in the morning just for yourself. Prepare things the night before to make mornings smoother.
- Learn to say no – Protect your time by being more assertive. Not always easy, but so important.
- Simplify your schedule – Reduce what’s on your plate to make room for rest.
- See a doctor – Sometimes fatigue comes from health issues like iron deficiency. It’s worth checking.
- Be selective with people around you – Let go of toxic, narcissistic, or draining people. You’re not their doctor.
- Set boundaries – Protect your time and mental health by saying no and limiting contact with those who drain your energy.
- Surround yourself with like-minded people – Spend time with those who share your values and interests. It boosts energy and motivation.
That’s my current toolbox. I don’t pretend it’s perfect, but it’s my way of breaking free from the exhaustion spiral. Step by step, small changes can really add up and help bring back balance
