I tried to do too much in a day - Write, workout, work, engage, chores etc.

I made the mistake of not slowing down. I thought I would be 'lazy' for not doing all these things in a day. Eventually fatigue (both mental and physical) would catchup taking its toll on things.

I realized downtime is essential, not an option.

Downtime Is Key To A Sustainable Lifestyle

By ignoring downtime, there's a snowball effect of fatigue. Your performance and focus take a massive hit.

If you're doing the same mistake, it's important to consider otherwise. Downtime is not a luxury. It's a necessity to keep pushing towards your goals. You can go guns blazing two days in a row and want a break on the third day.

It's better to have 5 'B Grade days in a row' than two A+'s followed by 3 D's.

Here are three things I learned from a professional:

#1. Find Downtime In Your Day

Downtime = Recovery. Downtime =/ Reward.

Have some downtime in the morning (after morning routines, before work) AND in the night (after work, before sleep). This will help you sustain busy days and sleep well.

#2. Prioritize Your Habits

What're the things you HAVE to do? What're the things you can afford to skip or alternate?

Some habits are more important than others. You would know what they are. Can't skip your run but can read on alternate days? Prioritize running over reading.

#3. Have A Focal Point

Have one habit that defines your other habits.

Ex: Wake up at 5AM. This is the one habit that is non negotiable as it sets the tone for the day

By following this habit you're setting a trigger for other habits. In this case, sleeping early, going for a run because you prefer the mornings and then beginning your days work.

I made the mistake of compromising downtime to more on days where I felt time ways less. This was not sustainable by any means. Now I know better.

“There is virtue in work and there is virtue in rest. Use both and overlook neither.” ― Alan Cohen