An expert suggests 5 ways to overcome the afternoon workday slump, according to research.

Combating the afternoon slump is a common challenge for workers — here are 5 effective strategies to overcome it.

An expert suggests 5 ways to overcome the afternoon workday slump, according to research.
An expert suggests 5 ways to overcome the afternoon workday slump, according to research.

A career expert is offering advice on how to overcome your afternoon nap cravings during work hours.

During the end of summer, maintaining work stamina can be challenging. Some individuals choose to consume caffeine for a boost, while others may prefer a brief stroll.

Kirsten Moorefield, a co-founder of Cloverleaf, an "automated coaching" company based in Cincinnati, Ohio, shared some tips to beat the 3 p.m. slump. The thought leader and TEDx speaker told Planet Chronicle Digital that the slump "doesn't have to be a productivity killer."

By comprehending what sets you apart and implementing some targeted changes, you can transform that afternoon slump into a period of rejuvenated concentration and imagination.

Understanding your personal wiring can aid in managing daily challenges, as stated by Moorefield.

Woman rubbing her eyes at work
Many people are known to fall into a period of exhaustion around 3pm during the day.  (iStock)

5 tips for beating the 3 p.m. slump

1. Know your wiring

Moorefield stated that one of the main causes of the afternoon crash is frequently working against our inherent abilities.

Perhaps you're a morning person who has already expended your peak energy, or maybe your tasks don't align with how your brain functions optimally.

Man slumped at work
Why are you getting tired at certain times of the work day? Get to know your unique wiring in order to create reminders throughout the day to help with productivity, advised one career coach (not pictured).  (iStock)

To enhance productivity, the career coaching expert advised focusing on understanding your distinct wiring and establishing reminders throughout the day.

2. Leverage small wins

Moorefield remarked, "Crossing off even the smallest task can give you a burst of energy."

"Small victories foster a feeling of achievement, which can rekindle your motivation when it's flagging."

To combat afternoon slumps, she suggested doing a brief work task at 3 p.m. to recharge energy for the rest of the day.

Having a few quick tasks handy in your daily planning can be beneficial in the long run, she said.

To do list checked off
Make a to-do list and cross a quick task off when you hit that afternoon slump.  (iStock)

3. Connect with others

Connecting with another person can help you beat the slump if you thrive on social interaction, she said.

Connecting with others can be effortless by simply checking in with a teammate for five minutes, regardless of the topic of discussion.

Engaging in social interactions can offer a new perspective or a much-needed chuckle, which can help clear the afternoon haze and prepare you to refocus on work.

4. Change your environment

An alternative way to combat the 3 p.m. slump is to briefly stand and alter your surroundings for a moment.

Two women walking at work
Taking a break and leaving your desk for a minute can also be beneficial. (iStock)

Moorefield suggested trying different approaches to overcome feeling stuck, such as moving to a different room, stepping outside, or simply standing up and stretching.

Staying in the same environment for too long can lead to a sluggish feeling because our brains crave variety.

5. Take a micro-break

Taking a short break from your work can help rejuvenate your afternoon, Moorefield suggested.

Taking short breaks to stretch, meditate, or simply close your eyes and breathe can help clear your mind and reduce fatigue, as she stated.

People tired at work
Tired of hitting that afternoon slump? An expert shared five ways to potentially beat it.  (iStock)

"Upon your return, you will likely discover that your concentration is heightened, and you are prepared to tackle the remaining tasks with renewed vigor."

Moorefield emphasized that maintaining focus isn't just about enduring.

Success comes from utilizing your inherent abilities and equipping yourself with the necessary resources.

by Brittany Kasko

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