Ultradian Rhythm

If you are a solopreneur, you are likely both the product and the service. Hold that point... we'll come back to it.

We sign up knowing that there is inherent risk and uncertainty. Whether you are three months into your entrepreneurial journey or 30 years, you have likely already experienced the up-and-down roller coaster of excitement and motivation and misery and procrastination that people warn you about when you first begin.

We move from extreme to extreme on the way to find balance. There is no acceleration without deceleration. It is what it is.

Understanding our own Ultradian Rhythm and the natural ebbs and flows of entrepreneurism can help us anticipate, address, and plan around it in an empowered way.

An Ultradian Rhythm is a natural cycle that affects our body and mind. It's a recurring pattern that takes place within a 24-hour day, with periods of high energy and productivity followed by periods of low energy and focus. It's a natural part of our physiological and psychological makeup, and it affects our productivity and overall well-being. Understanding and working WITH our Ultradian Rhythm can help us to be more productive and avoid burnout. And being aware of how it works can keep you out of the judgment that comes when you have a less-than-productive day.

Learn to surf, don't fight the wave.

Bottom line: If you are both the product and the service, the way you take care of and steward your own energy cycle is vital to performing as a pro.

^Speaking to myself on that one

Welcome the ruts 🙋🏽‍♂️

Here are a few questions to ask to understand and maximize your rhythm:

• What are the specific times during the day when I feel most energized and focused, and how can I align my most important tasks with these peak periods to maximize productivity? Most people’s energy spike mid-morning and ~4pm.
• How can I effectively structure breaks or rest periods throughout my day to optimize my energy levels and prevent burnout?
• Are there any patterns in my daily routine or habits that negatively impact my energy, and how can I make changes to optimize my overall well-being and work performance?
• What times of the year do I predictably feel most energized/tired? When do I get sick each year? For retired athletes, they often feel a pull to accelerate during their sport season. And for parents or career students, September tends to be a month of renewed energy and May/June can be a slog.