Recharge, refresh, renew and, review are four routines or rituals that people practise, often from month to month, as they adapt to the changing phases of life. Sometimes this adaptation works well. At other times, it does not. Taking time to reflect on the positive parts of the past, address the present, and hold hope for the future can help align body, mind and soul as we plan what comes next.
Recharge
To recharge is to inspire or invigorate, to bring something back to life. Every morning, many people recharge their electric razors after shaving. At night, mobile phones are plugged in so they are ready for the next day. When it comes to revitalising ourselves, people may look and behave differently depending on their situation. Either we recharge our internal systems, or we gradually run down. If this continues, we risk breaking or failing to function properly.
A simple comparison is a clock or watch that needs winding or a battery to work efficiently. When it stops completely, the battery must be replaced or recharged. Replacing a human being is not possible, but restoring energy often is. Even something as simple as taking a shower can be an effective way to recharge.
Working constantly, without pause, is often labelled “workaholism”. Many people experience difficulty limiting the amount of time they spend working, even when it leads to negative consequences such as strained relationships or declining health. Workaholics are often less effective overall. They may struggle with teamwork, find it hard to delegate tasks or trust colleagues, and take on too many responsibilities at once. There is no real achievement in being perpetually busy. Constant work is not a badge of honour.
After a demanding day that stretches well beyond eight hours, it is worth making time to recharge. In practice, this means engaging in some form of self care. Taking stock of oneself can support both physical and emotional well being. Options vary. A hot bath, a walk, swimming, or simply stepping away from demands can all help. Whatever method is chosen, it works best when full attention is given to it.
Lying down, closing the eyes, breathing in and out slowly, and making a genuine effort to relax can reset the mind. After a few moments, opening the eyes, breathing steadily, and refocusing can make the rest of the day feel more manageable. When done well, this brief pause can provide enough energy for the next stretch of time.
Refresh
To refresh is to restore strength or energy. It often involves something small that lifts our general mood and makes us feel better. Refreshing activities help replace lost energy and tend to feel light and unpressured. People refresh themselves in different ways, but many of these approaches stimulate endorphins, supporting both physical health and mental health. Even in busy schedules, it is important to make space for moments that allow the mind to clear.
Many physical and mental health professionals emphasise that the body, mind and soul all require rest. Like a computer, we sometimes need to reboot and reset. As entrepreneurs and, more importantly, as human beings, self care is essential. When we are not functioning well, our performance and interactions often suffer.
Below are five simple ways to refresh oneself.
- Down a glass of water.
- Take a walk outside.
- Breathe in lemon or other essential oils.
- Eat something healthy.
- Take a short power nap.
Renew
To renew means to continue after an interruption or to extend something for a further period. Renewing ourselves involves strengthening several key areas of life. Physical renewal includes regular exercise, healthy eating, quality sleep, effective relaxation, and consistent routines. Mental renewal comes through reading, writing, education, and learning new skills. Spiritual wellness involves activities that promote peace and serenity, such as meditation. For some, this may include spending time in nature. Others may find renewal through music, art, or writing.
At the 1993 ESPYs, Jim Valvano delivered an inspirational speech while battling cancer. His words, “Don’t give up. Don’t ever give up”, resonated deeply. Valvano passed away 47 days later, but his message remains powerful. It reflects the idea of staying with a task for as long as one can, even in difficult circumstances.
Peggy Swarbrick later expanded the concept of renewal by developing the “Eight Dimensions of Wellness“. This framework highlights interconnected areas that contribute to overall well being. Each dimension supports the others, helping to renew daily habits and improve quality of life. Engaging with these dimensions may also help manage symptoms, support health, and potentially extend longevity.
The eight dimensions include:
- Physical
- Emotional
- Social
- Intellectual
- Environmental
- Spiritual
- Vocational
- Financial
Engaging with each dimension supports the mind, body and soul. Progress does not need to happen all at once. One area can be addressed, then another, gradually creating meaningful change. Over time, these small adjustments can lead towards greater satisfaction and personal success.
Review
Review is the final step and, in many ways, the most important. To review is to look again, to reconsider, and to examine what has been done. It involves reflection, summary, and thoughtful evaluation. Reviewing allows us to identify areas that may need adjustment and to gain a clearer sense of what has truly been achieved.
Before submitting any piece of writing, I move through each of these stages. I begin by ensuring I am well rested and physically recharged. A shower helps me feel refreshed and ready to write. Taking breaks allows me to renew my focus and productivity. Finally, each submission goes through several reviews, but not too many. This balance helps prevent perfectionism from becoming counterproductive.
Reviewing does not mean fixating solely on errors. It is about developing a deeper understanding of the work. While perfection is rarely achieved, striving for quality requires revisiting and refining the process until it meets the necessary standards.
The world is full of negativity and constant change, not always for the better. When possible, focusing on positive aspects and stepping back when needed can help restore balance. By recharging, refreshing and renewing the body, mind and soul, it becomes easier to find inner harmony. Reviewing the past can also help improve present challenges. In doing so, we may find greater calm in the present and a more hopeful outlook for the future. In many ways, we all need to recharge, refresh, renew and review, both individually and collectively.
Howard Diamond is currently not employed due to nerve damage affecting both legs from the waist down, which makes walking difficult. He also experiences visual problems that cause severe headaches.