Try using a mantra during your next workout. Use anything you find inspiring, but keep it to a single word or a very short phrase. Something like "Yes!"..."Almost there!"...or "I'm strong!" can give you the boost you need to energize your workout. Say your mantra to yourself or out loud whenever you need that extra push or when you feel yourself flagging.

For more on maximizing your workouts...

• Get More From Your Workouts!
• Strength Training for Seniors (Beginners, Too)—No Gym Needed
• Kegel Exercises: Not Just for Women

How long is your to-do list? Most people's lists are way too long. Then the pressure is so enormous that we often feel overwhelmed and ultimately bad about ourselves when we don't get it all done, explains Allyson Lewis, author of The 7 Minute Solution. Her strategy? The "5 before 11 list." Think of five things you want to accomplish before 11 am. Knowing that you need to complete only five small tasks spurs you on to get started. And when you've completed them, you have a feeling of accomplishment that's invigorating—a great way to energize your day.

More articles on how to maximize your energy:

• Why Your Not-To-Do List Is More Important Than Your To-Do List
• Don't Let Chaos Steal Your Energy—The Three-Step, Three-Day Solution
• Are You Addicted to Work? Take the Quiz!