Decision energy isn't infinite, but it is renewable. Speed your recovery:
The Power Nap Protocol - Timing: 10-20 minutes maximum - Environment: Dark, cool, quiet - Position: Slightly elevated - Wake-up: Bright light exposure - Result: 2-3 hours renewed clarity
Research shows even 10 minutes can partially restore decision-making capacity.
Active Recovery Methods
Nature Restoration - 20-minute nature walk - No phones or podcasts - Focus on sensory experience - Let mind wander freely
Studies show nature exposure uniquely restores directed attention capacity.
Meditation Reset - 10-minute guided meditation - Focus on breath or body scan - No trying to "solve" anything - Return refreshed
Even skeptics find decision clarity improves post-meditation.
Physical Reset - Brief intense exercise - Cold shower - Yoga flow - Dancing to favorite songs
Physical state changes create mental state changes.
The Weekly Recovery Rhythm
Plan recovery like you plan work: - Daily: Mini-recoveries between decision blocks - Mid-week: Longer recovery Wednesday evening - Weekend: One full day with minimal decisions - Monthly: Decision-free weekend - Quarterly: Full week vacation from optimization
Lisa implemented structured recovery and found her peak hours became even more productive. Recovery isn't laziness—it's maintenance.