Small Shifts, Big Peace: Reflections on Energy and Mindfulness

I’ve been reflecting on how respecting my energy levels and staying present in the moment has brought me a sense of inner peace I didn’t have before. While I’m no expert in energy management or mindfulness, these simple shifts have been impactful.

In the past—and sometimes even now—I’d find myself frozen in indecision or overwhelmed. This paralysis often made it difficult to take action and left me in a terrible mood. To counter this, I’ve started asking myself a few key questions:

• What is my energy level?

• What do I really feel like doing?

• How am I feeling?

• Does this actually need to be done?

When overwhelmed, I identify the most important task I feel like doing and imagine a mental barrier blocking out the rest of my to-do list. This helps me focus, though I still struggle when I’m unmotivated or torn between two tasks. In those moments, I’ve found it’s okay to take a break, nap, or zone out with Netflix.

Despite occasional challenges, I’m proud of the progress I’ve made. I feel more content these days compared to before, when anxious energy often consumed me. The constant buzz of overwhelm or the compulsion to achieve would leave me drained.

One practice that’s helped is regular journaling. I make it a point to answer prompts like:

• What am I proud of today?

• What have I accomplished so far?

• What am I looking forward to?

• What’s a positive memory I can revisit?

I also read a letter I wrote to myself for difficult times. These small acts have contributed to a growing sense of peace. Inspired by this progress, I’ve been thinking about returning to meditation and regular walks—activities I know would enhance this newfound balance. Insights from the Huberman Lab podcast, with its wealth of practical advice, further motivate me.

That’s where I am for now. Maybe next time, I’ll share what I’ve been reading or dive deeper into a specific topic.