If you’ve ever started out a productive workday with a fresh cup of coffee and a detailed to-do list only to lose steam by 2PM, it’s probably because you’re dealing with the dreaded afternoon slump. That energy dip is caused by a drop in cortisol levels and blood pressure, making it feel like trying to get work done after a few drinks—but luckily there are ways to beat it.
Start by tackling the hardest tasks on your list first. People enjoy checking easy wins off their to-do lists, which can give them a false sense of progress, but working on harder tasks early in the day will help you reach flow faster and prevent the dreaded 2 PM slump.
Another tip is to plan your lunch and snack time strategically. Ideally, you want to have a four to five hour break between your breakfast and lunch, and a healthy snack is key to staying on track throughout the day. Aim for a balance of protein and carbohydrates to keep you satisfied until your next meal.