Let’s face it, when you’re living with a chronic illness, your energy isn’t just limited—it’s precious. Every spoon counts, and using one on the wrong thing can mean the difference between a semi-functional day and a full-blown couch coma. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with some tried-and-true hacks to manage energy like a pro.
Prioritize Like a Boss
Think of your daily to-do list as a ruthless game of survival. What absolutely has to get done? Spoiler alert: it’s probably not reorganizing your pantry. Identify your top priorities and let the rest wait. A great trick is the “Big 3” rule: pick three tasks for the day (big or small) and focus on just those. If you tackle them, you’re winning. If you only get to one, you’re *still* winning because rest is also productive.
Make Friends with the Word ‘No’
This might feel awkward at first, but saying no to other things means saying yes to your health. You don’t need to explain yourself or offer an elaborate excuse. Just a polite, “I can’t this time, but thanks for thinking of me” works wonders. Your time and energy are your most valuable currency—spend them wisely.
Batch Tasks
Batching is the spoonie’s secret weapon. Think meal prepping, but for everything. Instead of cleaning one area a day, dedicate a chunk of energy to cleaning for 20 minutes (set a timer!) and then rest. If you’re cooking, double or triple recipes to have easy leftovers ready to go. Less energy spent = more spoons saved.
Embrace Lazy Genius Energy Hacks
Sitting is winning:
Get a shower stool, fold laundry while sitting on the bed, and chop veggies at the table instead of standing at the counter.
Energy-friendly tools:
Grab a lightweight grabber tool, a rolling cart for carrying items around the house, or a robot vacuum if it’s in the budget.
Wearable warmth or cold:
Heating pads, compression socks, or cozy hoodies with built-in pockets make you feel supported (and warm) while you rest. Or grab a neck fan or side table fan when you are overheating.
Embracing lazy genius energy hacks like these will help you manage energy like a pro!
Set Boundaries with Tech
Phones and laptops can be both a lifeline and an energy suck. Use tools like screen time trackers, set “do not disturb” hours, and opt for audiobooks or podcasts over scrolling social media. Bonus: grab some blue-light-blocking glasses to ease eye strain.
Practice the Art of Delegation
You don’t have to do it all—seriously. If you have people in your life who can help, let them. Can your partner handle laundry? Can a friend pick up groceries or can you order groceries to be delivered? Even small asks like having someone carry your bags to the car can make a big difference. Pro tip: if you can afford it, hire help for tasks like cleaning. Think of it as an investment in your well-being.
Build in Rest Breaks
We’re all guilty of trying to power through, but here’s the thing: your body will make you rest eventually, whether you like it or not. So build in rest breaks every 20–30 minutes during any activity. Use alarms or timers as reminders, and don’t skip them. Resting before you’re completely wiped out is the ultimate energy hack. I often set a timer on my phone for 25 minutes then take a long break. After the break I reassess to see if I still have the energy to go back and finish or if I need to be done.
Create Energy Zones
Think of your home as divided into “energy zones”: high-energy areas (kitchen, laundry room) and low-energy zones (bedroom, cozy couch corner). Organize these spaces with tools and supplies you’ll need nearby, so you’re not running all over the house. For example, keep a “mini essentials kit” by your bed with water, meds, snacks, and a phone charger. Or a rolling cart in the living room with things you need and might want to do while you rest.
Celebrate Small Wins
Managed to take a shower today? Amazing! Heated up leftovers instead of making dinner from scratch? You’re crushing it. We’re not aiming for perfection here; we’re aiming for doable. Acknowledge every little thing you accomplish because, honestly, they’re all big wins.
Find Your Spoonie Community
No one gets it like another spoonie. Whether it’s online or in-person, finding a group of people who understand can provide both emotional support and practical tips. (Psst…if you haven’t already, join *The Unseen Sisterhood* newsletter for more hacks and encouragement.)
Living with a chronic illness means energy management is a skill you’re constantly fine-tuning, and that’s okay. With a little creativity, a lot of boundaries, and the support of your community, you can manage energy like a pro—one spoon at a time.