When you’re living with a chronic illness, managing your workday often feels like balancing on a tightrope. Every task demands energy, but you’re working with a limited supply and once it’s gone, recovery isn’t as simple as “a good night’s sleep.”

That’s why doing an energy audit is a game-changer.

Just like a financial audit shows where your money is going, an energy audit helps you track where your precious energy is being spent, drained, or (hopefully!) replenished. It’s the first step in working smarter, not harder, while safeguarding your health.

If you’ve ever found yourself saying:

• “Why am I so exhausted after meetings?”
• “I’m busy all day but get nothing meaningful done.”
• “I don’t even know what to change to feel better.”

…then this post is for you.

What is an Energy Audit (And Why You Need One)?

An energy audit is a reflective exercise where you identify which activities in your workday:

• Drain your energy
• Replenish your energy
• Or leave you feeling neutral

It’s not about blaming yourself for being tired. It’s about building awareness, so you can make small, strategic changes that protect your health while staying productive.

Think of it as your personal guide to working smarter, not harder.

Helpful Resource: The ME Associations guide to pacing, explains how managing your energy levels through structured planning can support those with fatigue-related conditions.

How to Start Your Energy Audit in 3 Simple Steps

1. Track Your Workday (With Energy in Mind)

For 3-5 days, keep a simple log of your activities. After each task or meeting, rate your energy level:

• Energised (+)
• Neutral (0)
• Drained (-)

This can be a quick note in your phone or planner. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s awareness.

2. Spot the Patterns

At the end of your tracking period, look for trends:

• Which tasks consistently drain you?
• Are certain times of day worse?
• What activities give you a surprising energy boost?

Even small insights, like noticing that video calls are more draining than emails, can shape smarter work habits.

3. Take One Actionable Step

Choose one energy-draining habit to adjust. For example:

• Swap back-to-back meetings for focus blocks
• Batch admin tasks to avoid constant context switching
• Build in 5-minute rest breaks after draining activities

Small tweaks, done consistently, lead to big results over time.

Want more practical strategies? Download my free guide: 5 Powerful Strategies to Reduce Fatigue at Work to discover how simple changes can protect your energy.

Reclaim Your Energy and Redefine Success

An energy audit isn’t just a task, it’s a mindset shift. It’s the first step toward creating a work-life that honours both your ambition and your well-being.

If this resonates with you, you’ll love The Sunday Power-Up, my weekly newsletter filled with tips for balancing career success with chronic illness. Subscribe here for your weekly energy boost.

Disclaimer:

The content in this blog is based on my personal experience of living with chronic illness and is shared for informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your GP or healthcare professional before making any changes to your lifestyle, work routine, or health management. The tips and strategies shared here can be used alongside medical advice to support your well-being.