When you’re not feeling 100%, give yourself a break.
When you’re not feeling 100%, it’s hard to get started and keep going.
No matter how organized or motivated we are, there are days when we simply don’t feel like ourselves. Whether it’s due to illness, stress, burnout, or general fatigue, staying on top of responsibilities when you’re running at half capacity can feel overwhelming.
The good news? You don’t have to be at your best to make meaningful progress. With the right mindset and strategies, it’s entirely possible to stay on track when you’re not feeling 100% —without pushing yourself to the point of exhaustion.
Here are five practical, professional strategies to help you maintain momentum, even when you’re not firing on all cylinders:
1. Reassess and Prioritize Your Tasks
When your energy is low, it’s important to be realistic about what you can accomplish. Start by reviewing your to-do list and identifying the tasks that absolutely must get done today. Ask yourself:
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What are the consequences if this doesn’t get completed today?
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Is this urgent, or can it be postponed?
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Can I delegate this to someone else?
Focusing your attention on high-impact items helps you conserve energy and direct it toward what matters most.
2. Embrace the “10-Minute Rule”
Getting started is often the hardest part, especially when you’re not feeling your best. One effective technique is the 10-minute rule: commit to working on a task for just ten minutes. If you still feel too tired afterward, allow yourself to pause or switch tasks. But more often than not, you’ll find that the initial resistance fades, and you’re able to continue.
This approach lowers the mental barrier to productivity and helps you build momentum in small, manageable increments.
3. Simplify When You’re Note Feeling 100%
Now is not the time to overthink your work. Ask yourself: What’s the simplest way to get this done, without sacrificing quality?
This might mean:
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Sending a quick summary email instead of drafting a detailed report (for now)
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Using a template instead of creating something from scratch
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Choosing a video call over a lengthy written update
Efficiency is key when energy is limited. Done is better than perfect.
4. Lean on Tools, Routines, and Support Systems
When you’re not feeling 100%, structure can help carry the weight. Use tools like task managers, calendar reminders, or focus timers to keep you grounded. Routines you’ve already established—like morning planning or a 2 p.m. check-in—can provide a reassuring framework for your day.
Also, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Colleagues, mentors, or even automated workflows can help bridge the gap while you recover.
5. Give Yourself Compassion
It’s easy to feel guilty for not performing at your usual level, but it’s essential to treat yourself with kindness. Everyone experiences off days. The goal isn’t to maintain perfection—it’s to do what you can with what you have.
Recognize that slowing down doesn’t mean falling behind. Often, taking care of your mental and physical health is the most productive choice you can make.
Remember, you don’t need to be operating at 100% to make progress. With a little intention, strategic planning, and self-compassion, you can stay on top of your responsibilities while still honoring your current capacity.
Some days are about maximizing efficiency. Others are about maintaining momentum. Either way, showing up—imperfectly—is still a step forward.
More help when you’re not feeling 100%:
Overwhelmed? Discouraged? Stuck? Well, here’s something that will help you loosen those logjams and start moving again. “Why Can’t I Ever Get Anything Done?” How to Transform Your Life Using These 101 Time Tips is a compilation of 101 of my most popular time tips in expanded form, offering practical, heart-based wisdom in right-sized bites for easy digestion.
It includes time-tested tips and action steps separated into 11 common categories to help you find just what you need in the moment you need it. You know, transforming your life is all about transforming your time. It’s within your reach, and these 101 Time Tips give you 101 stepping stones to your time success.
And I’ve got a very special bonus for you, too. Why Can’t I Find My Direction?” 17 Journaling Prompts to Create Your Ideal Life is a workbook designed to support you in making the changes you most desire.
There’s so much for you here, and you can learn about it by clicking the link below:
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