Time. We all have 24 hours of it in a day, yet we always seem to be strapped for it. We live in the fast lane following schedules that are filled with activities down to the last minute. When we free up one thing in our calendar, we replace it with something else. Here’s the key to improving your energy and maximizing your time…

The next time you think about your day, make decisions based on how you want to use your energy rather than time.

Shifting your thinking to managing your energy inherently forces you to consider the value of each task or commitment relative to the energy you put into and get out of it. Energy can come from physical, mental and emotional foods and experiences. Experiences can nourish us or experiences can drain us. Therefore, the decision becomes a mathematical question. Just like your bank account, you’ll want to keep your energy in the black. If you do so, by default you’ll be able to better manage your time and improve your health.

7 Habits to Nourish Your Energy

1. Begin with the end in mind

What do you want people to remember you for? Start with this question to find out what’s really important to you in your life. When you make your values your priorities and align your energy with them, not only will you find greater satisfaction and happiness in life, but you will also be able to better prioritize your tasks and your commitments. When you make decisions about your time, think about your values and what you want to be remembered for.

2. Set a positive tone for your day

Positive emotions and gratitude are natural energy boosters. Try this exercise when you wake up.

-Keep your eyes closed.

-Observe your breath and without changing it, recognize its depth, length, pace and location.

-Think of something you’re thankful for or something you desire, and visualize the effects of it coming true.

3. Plan for sufficient downtime

Take breaks and get plenty of rest—both physical and mental. Every day, carve out some time for yourself. Put a few minutes on your work calendar at regular intervals to get up, stretch, and step away from your desk. At night, get plenty of sleep!

Turn off all electronics at least 1 hour before bedtime and aim to be in bed by 10PM to aid the digestion process. Getting enough sleep is critical to health and performance.

4. Watch what you put into your body

We get energy from the foods we eat. What we eat is just as important as when and how we eat. A nutritious, cooked lunch boosts your nervous system, which you will need for your meetings and work in the afternoon. Otherwise, your energy will plummet and you will likely crave salty and sweet foods, or go for your second cup of coffee.

Eat your healthy lunch mindfully without any distractions to give yourself an energy boost for the rest of the afternoon.

5. Watch what you put into your mind

What you put into your mind has a huge impact on your energy. We perceive the world through our senses and our senses work with our brain to process information. This means that the kind of movies or news you watch, the way you talk to people and the way they talk to you will send messages to your brain. These messages will create a biochemical reaction in your body based on your past experiences, beliefs, and expectations.

You already know that positive emotions are natural energy boosters so make sure that what you perceive through your senses and process through your brain is positive as often as possible.  Note: This might make you want to turn off the morning news.

6. Shake it off

We are exposed to unpleasant, negative and unwholesome sensory stimuli, there’s just no way around that. When you’re unable to eliminate negative factors from your life, learn to accept them instead. As long as you’re exuding negative energy, such as fear, hatred, jealousy or envy towards these factors, you’re hurting your own energy levels.

7. Pause before you act

Every interaction takes energy. In our fast-paced world, we often just “roll with things.” But, there’s a lot of value in pausing before acting. Speak when your speech brings value, not when your ego wants to prove itself. Listen to hear first, not to respond first. Take a step back and ask questions before aimlessly moving too far ahead. Protect your energy when dealing with difficult people. Have compassion but draw your boundaries.

Energy is a precious resource. Handle it with care so you can continue to share it for as long as possible.

[RELATED: 6 Easy Habits of Really Happy People]