1. Track Your Depletion Stages: Tomorrow, note what time you hit each depletion stage. Mark when you transition from Optimal to Functional, Functional to Impaired, and Impaired to Bankruptcy. Most people are surprised how early the decline begins.
2. Identify Your Micro-Drains: For one hour, count every micro-decision you make. Include digital choices, social decisions, and environmental choices you normally don't notice. The total will shock you.
3. Experiment with Recovery: Try three different recovery methods this week: a 20-minute nap, a decision-free walk, and a meditation session. Note which restores your decision energy most effectively.
4. Notice Your Personal Patterns: Track whether certain factors accelerate your depletion: hunger, stress, particular people, specific environments. Understanding your patterns helps you plan accordingly.
5. Test Your Morning vs. Evening Self: Choose a complex decision you've been postponing. Try working on it first thing tomorrow morning, then revisit it in the evening. Notice the dramatic difference in clarity and confidence.