15 Self-Care Habits to Have More Energy and Feel Less Exhausted

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Everyone’s talking about self-care these days. But let’s be real: most of us don’t have time for a luxurious bubble bath or a silent retreat every time life gets overwhelming. Instead, we’re chugging caffeine like it’s our life support and pretending that a five-minute scroll on social media counts as “relaxation.” Spoiler alert: it doesn’t. But what if feeling less like a zombie and more like an actual human being didn’t require a major life overhaul?

It turns out, there are small habits—actual, doable ones—that can inject some energy into your day without needing a weeklong vacation. If you’ve ever found yourself yawning before lunch or needing a nap after sending a single email, this list might be exactly what you need. And no, I won’t tell you to meditate for an hour or drink green juice (unless you’re into that sort of thing, in which case, good for you). These self-care habits are realistic, budget-friendly, and actually fit into your busy life.

Ready to ditch the exhaustion and embrace that long-lost thing called “energy”?

Get Some Real Sleep

Woman Bed Sleep
Image Credit: Depositphotos/AllaSerebrina.

We’re not talking about the “I’ll just watch one more episode” kind of sleep. Real, adult sleep—like, 7-8 hours. You know, the kind that doesn’t require five alarms to drag you out of bed. If you’re still running on 5 hours and hoping caffeine will do the rest, spoiler alert: it won’t.

Hydrate Like You Mean It

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No, coffee doesn’t count as hydration. Neither does that soda you grabbed at lunch. Water is your best friend here, and dehydration is basically exhaustion in disguise. Keep a bottle on hand, and yes, it’s okay to pretend you’re one of those “hydration influencers.”

Take a Walk… Away from Your Desk

Older man walking happy
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When was the last time you walked more than five steps away from your computer? Taking a walk (preferably outside) can do wonders for your energy levels. And no, pacing around while on a call doesn’t count.

Say “No” Without Apologizing

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You know those plans you said “yes” to, even though you’re already exhausted? Cancel them. Politely, of course. You’d be amazed how much energy you get back when you’re not overcommitting yourself just to avoid awkwardness.

Eat Like You Actually Care

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Junk food might give you a quick energy spike, but it’s a total scam. Instead, go for real food—vegetables, proteins, healthy fats. You don’t have to go full health guru, just try to eat something that didn’t come from a vending machine today.

Break Up with Your Phone Before Bed

woman on phone
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Scrolling until your eyes can’t stay open isn’t doing you any favors. The blue light is messing with your sleep, and we’ve already established how crucial that is. Set an alarm for your phone and put it away at least 30 minutes before bed—yes, I know it’s hard.

Try a Power Nap, Not a 3-Hour Siesta

Woman Bed Sleep
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There’s a fine line between a refreshing nap and waking up in a fog that feels like you’ve time-traveled to a different dimension. Stick to 20-30 minutes, and you’ll wake up feeling like a new person instead of a groggy mess.

Breathe Like You Mean It

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It sounds silly, but when was the last time you took a deep breath? We tend to hold our breath when stressed, making everything worse. Take a few minutes during the day to stop and breathe deeply. Bonus points if you throw in a stretch.

Limit the Caffeine (I Know, I Know)

Woman in bed smelling coffee
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Look, no one’s asking you to quit your morning coffee—let’s not get crazy. But that afternoon cup (or three) might be sabotaging your energy more than helping. Try switching to water or herbal tea after lunch. Your sleep schedule will thank you.

Move Your Body, Even If It’s Just a Wiggle

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You don’t have to hit the gym for an hour to reap the benefits of movement. Stretch, dance in your living room, do a few squats while watching TV. Just get your blood flowing, and you’ll be surprised at the energy boost.

Start Saying “Later” to Non-Urgent Tasks

to do list
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Not everything needs to be done right now. Learn to prioritize and push less important tasks to later. Overloading your to-do list is an energy drain in itself. Trust me, the laundry can wait.

Create a Chill Morning Routine

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Stop hitting snooze and rushing out the door like your pants are on fire. Give yourself time in the morning—even just 10 extra minutes—to wake up, breathe, and start your day without the chaos. Bonus points for a peaceful breakfast.

Clean Up Your Space (Just a Little)

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No one’s asking for a Pinterest-worthy home, but a little tidying can do wonders for your mental clarity. When your space is less chaotic, you feel less chaotic. It’s science. (Probably.)

Laugh, Like, A Lot

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Laughter isn’t just fun—it’s a mini energy reset. Watch a funny video, hang out with that friend who always cracks you up, or just find humor in the everyday absurdities of life. You’ll feel lighter and more energized.

Schedule “Me Time” Like It’s an Important Meeting

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You wouldn’t skip a work meeting, so why skip your own downtime? Set aside time just for yourself, and stick to it. Whether it’s reading, painting your nails, or sitting in silence, protect that time like your sanity depends on it—because it does.

15 Clever Hacks To Reduce That Never-Ending Grocery Bill

woman looking shocked at the grocery store prices
Image Credit: Depositphotos stokkete.

Managing grocery expenses can be challenging for many households, especially with rising food costs and fluctuating budgets.

However, with some creativity and resourcefulness, you can implement numerous clever hacks to reduce your never-ending grocery bill without sacrificing the quality or variety of your meals.

15 Clever Hacks To Reduce That Never-Ending Grocery Bill

20 Frugal Habits You’ve Probably Never Thought of

couple looking at bills happily at the table
Image credit: Depositphotos HayDmitriy.

Being frugal is more than just cutting back on expenses; it’s about adopting smart habits that help you save money and live more intentionally. While you may already be familiar with some standard frugal practices, many lesser-known habits can further stretch your budget and improve your financial well-being. 

20 Frugal Habits You’ve Probably Never Thought of

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