Do you ever have days when you feel you’re not being as productive as you know you should and could be? Maybe not just days. Sometimes weeks.

What the heck is going on?!

We all know that productivity takes a hit when our focus is scattered and our to-do list is longer than Psalm 119! As I say in Reboot Your Leadership, "where there are loads of priorities, there are no priorities."

But there’s another silent thief that can steal our productivity if we don’t watch out for it.

I’m talking about how you steward your energy.

Energy is a finite resource. We can’t create more hours in the day, but we can become much more intentional about where we invest the energy we have.

So, consider this simple four-step process:

Firstly, be aware.
Pay attention to the times of day when you know your energy battery is at its fullest. We’re all wired differently. Some of us are early-morning people, some hit their stride around midday, some are night owls, while others experience peaks and troughs throughout the day.

You can’t steward your energy if you’re not aware of its ebbs and flows.

Secondly, prioritise.
Once you have a clearer sense of your energy map, make sure you’re prioritising your most demanding, creative and mentally challenging work for those high-energy moments.

I personally know that after 3pm I’m better off tackling tedious admin than trying to do something that requires significant mental and creative energy. Although, from time to time, I do get a second wind for evening work (when necessary)!

Thirdly, recharge.
Be intentional about the activities and practices that give your energy a much-needed boost.

This includes the basics of good rest and sleep, eating well and exercising, but it might also include other life-giving activities. I’m personally partial to a timed 10-minute nap from time to time as a bit of a reset. A distracting, refreshing walk can work wonders too.

Finally, protect.
Be mindful of what and who drains your energy. Let’s be honest about this! There are activities - and sometimes people - that leave us feeling depleted. We might not always be able to avoid them, but if our days and diaries are full of things that drain us, eventually our energy and health will take a hit.

And perhaps most importantly, remember this: Your energy is limited, but God’s isn’t.

We’re not called to squeeze every last drop of energy out of ourselves in the name of productivity. We’re called to steward what God has entrusted to us, to recognise our limitations, and to depend on him.

Remember, God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness.

So, what’s one thing you could change today to better steward the energy God has given you?

And if this has got you thinking about your growing in your leadership then why not consider joining me for the Reboot Your Leadership experience, with a cohort of leaders from charity, church and business. Find out more HERE