Publishing has many moving parts, and occasionally one of those parts eats a paragraph. In my case, an editing issue (aka, autoimmune brain fog) caused a portion of the “Learn to be an Energy Account” section in Chapter 3 of Chronically Ill, Wildly Capable to disappear from the final version. By the time I caught it, the files were already locked for release.
Rather than let that content disappear into the publishing void, I’m posting it below so you have the complete framework as intended. Thank you for your grace, and for understanding that sometimes the message is solid even when the logistics are messy.
How to Be an Energy Accountant
1. Determine Your “Salary” (Daily Energy Levels)
Some people wake up every day with an energy budget that could fund a luxury vacation. Other people (hellooooo chronic illness gang) wake up with barely enough energy for rent. Over time, you can track how much energy you typically use in a day, which helps you be mindful of the energy cost of different tasks.
2. Make an Energy Spending Plan
Decide what is ‘non-negotiable’ (work, basic life stuff), what is flexible (errands, socializing), and what is optional (deep-cleaning your fridge at 2AM because you feel a sudden burst of productivity). Prioritize these accordingly in your planning.
3. Say No (Without Feeling Like a Monster)
When you take on more than you should, you are borrowing energy from your future self. Future you would really appreciate it if you stopped that. “I’m not available for that right now, but thanks for thinking of me” is one of my most-used statements. Please borrow it.
4. Factor in Recovery Time
If you know something is going to take a lot out of you, be as proactive as you can and schedule recovery time. If you don’t schedule recovery time or let your other obligations go without recovery in between, you are setting yourself up for a crash.
5. Outsource What You Can
No rule states you have to do everything. If you have the funds available, consider hiring someone to handle the tasks you cannot; if not, lean on your friends, family, or even coworkers for the things that are draining you. Asking for help is a form of self-care.
For more ways to protect your energy at work with a chronic illness, check out Chronically Ill, Wildly Capable on Amazon or Barnes & Noble.
Little Engine Patient Advocacy 
Leave a comment