A few days into Ramadan and you are struggling more than ever. The heat is scorching, Iftar always feels hours away, and focusing on the new water project has become nearly impossible (the hunger pangs are real). So, how do you get back on track and boost your productivity rate during this holy month?
Here are some expert-approved tips and tricks to try when your energy levels run low during Ramadan:
With the lack of productivity, you might experience, planning what you will be doing is essential. Making a ‘to-do’ list will help you work smartly and focus on work, not how your day will be and what you will be doing.
Therefore, take up the high-priority tasks that will take more energy during the initial hours of your workday. Schedule all the crucial meetings in advance to prepare for the day ahead. Make sure to state your reasons for scheduling the meetings early to your workmates, so they have ample time to plan their schedules accordingly.
It would be best not to have to overeat as you refuel your energy during Suhur and the breaking of the fast. Instead, be sure to consume in moderate portions for Suhur, as overeating will lead to drowsiness and lack of productivity.
Go for balanced meals – carbohydrates, fiber, and proteins in your intake. Fiber-rich foods help keep you satisfied for longer and release energy slowly. Also, be sure to eat more veggies and fruits like avocados. Many people also love to consume yogurt after Suhur. However, rather than consuming regular yogurt, go for Greek Yogurt. It contains double the amount of protein as regular yogurt. It is also low in carbs and can allow reducing thirst.
On regular days, caffeine helps make you feel alert, especially when you feel sleepy. However, during fasting, it is not advisable to consume caffeine during Suhur or when you have Iftar since you will have trouble sleeping and end up sleeping late. Therefore, it might also increase urination, draining your body out of its fluids and triggering thirst the following day. So, be sure to take as much water as possible during non-fasting hours to allow you to feel more relaxed during workdays.
During Ramadan, you can use your breaks to regain focus. If you feel unmotivated or sleepy, be sure to take time off. You can try going for a walk since the fresh air will help you stay focused and ready to keep working. You can also use your break to calm yourself down, especially if you get headaches due to a lack of caffeine.
Sleeping patterns tend to be messed up during Ramadan. That is why adjusting sleeping hours is essential. You can try two approaches – consume Suhur early, retire to bed, wake up to eat Sahur, and then go back to sleep.
You might also try taking short naps during the day to help you get enough sleep. According to the National Sleep Foundation, a rest of fewer than 30 minutes can help restore mental alertness, enhance performance, and boost information retention five-fold. It can also help reverse the productivity-blasting effects of a poor night’s rest.
Doing crunches, lunges, and burpees can help you stay energized. Working out will enhance your energy levels to help release endorphins in the body and boost your mood levels. It will also help you stay focused and fresh, thus making you feel motivated and more productive at work. However, remember that working out is better after Iftar, and be sure to avoid heavy exercises.
Whether it is looking up recipes on Pinterest, retweeting funny memes, scrolling through Instagram and TikTok, or watching cat videos on YouTube. This addiction can be a massive productivity killer if you are not cautious; hence, it is wise to use it in smaller doses.
We suggest you try and do your social media checkups after work. Or, you can set 20 to 30 minutes for less distracting activities like reading blog articles or watching vlogs that can help improve your focus and alertness.
Do not fall into the trap of self-blame and frustration since weakness is human nature. Instead, try thinking positively about how to get back on track. Sometimes you will not have a successful day or week as you might hope. When this occurs, the best thing you can do is be compassionate with yourself. You can also seek encouragement from your friends to help rejuvenate your energy.
So, what do you do to stay focused and productive during Ramadan? Let us know in the comments below!
