A Realistic Guide to Getting Stuff Done When You’re Low on Energy

We’ve all had those days — the ones where even getting out of bed feels like a major achievement. Whether it’s burnout, anxiety, illness, or just a bad night’s sleep, sometimes your energy is at an all-time low but life still needs doing.

On those days, I’ve learned to stop pushing myself to ‘power through’ like I used to, especially while on maternity leave. Instead, I’ve found an approach to getting things done — one that respects my limits but still helps me tick off the essentials. Here’s my realistic, pressure-free guide to productivity when you’re running on empty.

1. Start with the basics when you’re low on energy (they count!)

Before I even think about my to-do list, I check in with the essentials:

• Have I eaten?

• Am I hydrated?

• Have I moved, even just a little?

• Have I had a shower or at least washed my face?

These might seem obvious, but when you’re drained, even the basics can feel like big wins. Starting with something small — like making the bed or drinking a glass of water — creates a gentle sense of momentum.

2. Do the easiest thing first

When energy is low, I don’t jump into the biggest task. I look for the lowest-effort win — replying to a quick email, folding laundry, or deleting junk mail. Ticking something off my to do list, no matter how small, boosts my mood. And it helps me feel like I’ve accomplished something. It’s about building confidence, not chasing perfection.

This is especially important on days when I’m in the house looking after baby. I’m not going to be able to tick loads of things off, but a few small things all adds up.

3. Use the 5-minute rule 

This is my go-to when I’m feeling mentally foggy: pick a task and commit to just 5 minutes of it. I tell myself I can stop after that. Most of the time, getting started is the hardest part — and once I’m in, I often keep going. If not? That’s okay too. Five minutes is still progress.

This is again really useful when I’m looking after baby as I can do this during naps. And if all I get is five minutes it’s still progress.

4. Switch to ‘maintenance mode’ when you’re low on energy

Some days just aren’t meant for pushing forward. On those days, I switch my focus to maintenance — the bare minimum to keep life ticking over. That might be replying to one important message, prepping something simple for dinner, or putting in a load of laundry. Progress doesn’t always mean moving fast — sometimes it’s just keeping the wheels turning.

I have a simple list of tasks to do on days when Luke is working and I’m looking after the baby. These are the bare basics that if I get nothing else done will ensure the day can tick on without issue.

5. Lower the bar (and the guilt)

Your worth isn’t tied to your productivity. If all you can manage today is one small task, that’s okay. Be proud of showing up, however that looks. Give yourself permission to do less — or to do it slower, messier, or differently than usual. It still counts.

How to get stuff done with you’re low on energy

Getting stuff done when you’re low on energy isn’t about being superhuman — it’s about being kind to yourself while still showing up. You don’t need a 10-step morning routine or a perfectly colour-coded to-do list. You just need realistic goals, a bit of compassion, and permission to rest when you need to.

You’re doing better than you think. And sometimes, getting through the day is the achievement.