Earlier this month, I found myself typing this newsletter somewhere between Hawaii’s sunrise and Washington’s skyline — a reminder that momentum doesn’t stop when you travel. It just changes shape.

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When you’re on the move, it’s easy to fall into one of two traps: either working nonstop to “stay productive,” or checking out completely and coming home overwhelmed by the pile waiting for you. (And I’ve personally struggled to know which one to do as I’m on the road). 

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But real progress isn’t about managing time — it’s about managing energy.

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Energy > Time

Time is fixed. Energy is renewable — if you protect it.

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That’s the core of The Shift philosophy: you don’t need more hours, you need more fuel for the hours you have.

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During my travels, I noticed that small, simple systems made all the difference:

• Sunrise coffee sips to reset my mind before checking my phone.
• A set shutdown time (yes, even on “vacation”) to create boundaries between movement and rest. (Mine is 10 pm).
• Offline hours on flights or quiet mornings — the best thinking time I’ve had in months. (And no, I don’t like having WiFi on planes now…).

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The result? I came back with more clarity, not less. More creative ideas, not burnout.

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And not only that, but as I get back into rhythm this week, I’m finding it much easier to transition back into my normal fitness and work routine. 

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Your Shift

If you’re travelling, transitioning, or just navigating a busy season, protect your energy like it’s your passport — you can’t go far without it.

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Try this:

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Create a simple Travel Energy Checklist for your next trip or packed week.

It might include:

• Morning movement (walk, stretch, breathe)
• Boundaries for screen time or email
• One anchor habit that grounds you (journal, coffee ritual, music playlist)
• A set “shutdown” window each evening

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You don’t have to work harder on the go — just smarter and more intentionally.

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Because momentum doesn’t come from doing everything.

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It comes from protecting what powers you.

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Subscribe for more.

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Chris M Wilson