Consider standing up and taking a quick walk while you read. Did a friend forward this to you? You can subscribe here.

EST Read Time: 2.5 minutes

This is my breathtaking view of a thousand-year-old castle in Austria. I almost missed seeing it and the chance to live out my Von Trapp family dreams. Why? Because going for only a quick visit felt insufficient given how much there was to do at work. I convinced myself that if I couldn’t spend multiple days experiencing everything, then why bother seeing anything at all?

That’s the sneaky sabotage of the "all or nothing mindset." It's common among ambitious people, quietly stealing joy and meaningful moments far too often. But catching myself, I reframed it: one impactful experience would be enough. And in fact, that single afternoon became one of the best moments of my summer.

When we feel “too busy” to do the things we genuinely want, whether prioritizing health, time with people we love, or moments that simply spark joy, it ultimately does boil down to this feeling of control, or frankly, feeling the loss of it.

This is why, personally and professionally, I often remind myself, the employees we support, and candidly, anyone in my orbit to focus less on what we can't do, and instead reclaim control by naming what we can.

Strategy: Reclaim and Reframe

Key phrase: I can’t do this, but I can do this.

• I can’t do the 60-minute workout, but I can move for 5 minutes.

• I can’t create the whole deck, but I can spend 5 minutes on one slide.

• I can’t finish a chapter of a new book, but I can take 5 minutes to read a few pages before bed.

• I can’t spend the whole afternoon with my kids today, but I can take five minutes to play.

Time is finite. The key is to spend less energy worrying about how little you have, and more energy making the most of the moments you do. This reframing practice is a muscle, and it gets stronger the more we use it. 

Most importantly, think about it. Aren’t you always glad you did something rather than nothing? The reality is those minutes are effective. Moments of productivity, well-being, and joy add up to meaningful memories over time.

With that in mind, check out One Simple Thing for quick ways to reclaim your energy in ~5 minutes, and let us know if you create your own.

One Simple Thing

Try one strategy below to reclaim time and energy over the next week.

• Physical Energy: Working on the road, remote, or simply short on time? Here‘s how to design movement into your workday and a quick 5-minute workout you can do anywhere.

• Mental Energy: Try 4 Productivity Strategies to Stay Focused (especially when technology is trying to distract you).

• Emotional Energy: Schedule a quick chat with a friend, mentor, or someone who always makes you feel great. Note: you don’t have to have the call today, just get it on the books. 

• Mindful Energy: Find 5 minutes for reflection or recharge. Whether it’s simply being alone, journaling, or taking time in nature, enjoy moments of your own thoughts and no one else‘s.

Dilagence on the Move 

Excited to support Hampton’s new cohort of high-growth founders with Dilagence performance and well-being frameworks.

Latest in Forbes: Hybrid workforce movement tips + protecting your attention online

Dose of Dilan

How I’m Reclaiming Productivity:

Reclaim.ai calendar scheduling. No pun intended, but on brand for today‘s newsletter. My favorite new hack? Creating a dedicated scheduling link for Walk & Talks in NYC.

What I’m Re-Reading from Childhood:

The Phantom Tollbooth. At least once a year, I revisit a childhood classic and find it hits much deeper as an adult. From puns to brilliant wordplay, it’s a delightful reminder to stay curious and that boredom often means there's time waiting to be reclaimed.

Where I Worked & Worked Out in July:

Loved exploring the London fitness scene while working across the pond. They workout on the right side of the bench. Go figure. In addition to Barry’s (HIIT), I’m saving Psycle (Spin), 1Rebel (Reformer), and ThirdSpace (Box Gym) for the future.

Thanks for reading, I’m glad you’re on the team. For regular doses of Dilagence, follow on LinkedIn and if you know someone else who can benefit from this newsletter, invite them to subscribe here.