Too many companies are looking at improving processes to improve performance. It seems to be the same with people. They think that will get them out of a flat market into growth in income. That seems to me to be the most unhelpful place to put your energy at the moment.

My current belief is that you as an individual or you as a company can do something to begin to improve performance. That is, to energise yourself.

Too many people are tired – the economic downturn has been the worst for a century. If you’re still standing, you’re doing well.

Get your energy managed – stop working tired.

If you are working flat out week after week, your performance fades. You take a holiday and collapse. Then you return and crank up the hamster wheel for the next period. And so on.

STOP.

Get some rest during the week. Use the weekend to get out and walk or some other activity that is kind to you. Gradually restore your energy.

Start to do great work again. The stuff that makes you feel proud. Then watch your results fly again.

Keep taking care of your energy.

Ed Percival is a business coach with Shirlaws Business Coaching, www.shirlawscoaching.com