Notice!

Welcome to Working Solutions. We offer independent contractor, work-at-home opportunities for folks located in either the United States, Canada or Jamaica.

We do not accept applicants located outside of the United States, Canada or Jamaica.

Read our blogs

5.5 Minute Read

How to Beat the Midday Slump—Without Coffee. Natural Energy Boosters for Remote Workers.

Updated on: September 16, 2025

Let’s be honest: the midday slump is real. Whether you’re answering customer service calls, working on a support ticket, or prepping for your next shift, that 2 p.m. crash can hit hard—especially when you’re working from home.

While coffee might seem like the go-to fix, it’s not the only solution (and too much of it can actually make you feel worse). As an independent contractor with Working Solutions, having control over your schedule and space gives you a unique opportunity to create energy-boosting habits that don’t rely on caffeine.

Here are seven natural ways to recharge during your workday—without reaching for another cup of coffee.

1. Natural Light: A Simple Midday Slump Solution

If your home office setup has you stuck in a dim corner, your energy might be suffering. Exposure to natural light helps regulate your body’s internal clock, improving alertness and reducing that drowsy feeling.

Quick Tip:
Take a 5-minute break and step outside or simply move near a window for a change of scenery.

2. Quick Movement Breaks: Energy Hacks for Midday Productivity

You don’t need a full workout to wake your body up—just a little movement can make a big difference. Light stretching, standing up for a walk around your space, or even a couple of jumping jacks can get your blood flowing and reenergize your brain.

Remote Work Win:
Use your flexibility to build short activity breaks into your schedule between client calls or program work.

3. Stay Energized by Hydrating Properly

Woman at home pours herself a glass of water from a water purification system

Shutterstock; Photo by Pixel-Shot

Sometimes, fatigue is just dehydration in disguise. When you’re focused on work or in back-to-back calls, it’s easy to forget to drink water. But staying hydrated helps maintain mental clarity and steady energy levels.

Pro Tip:
Keep a water bottle at your desk and sip regularly. Add lemon, cucumber, or mint for a refreshing twist.

4. Snack Smarter: Caffeine-Free Energy Hacks

What you eat during the day has a direct impact on your energy levels. Skip the sugary snacks and instead go for a mix of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs.

Best slump-busting snacks:

  • A handful of almonds or walnuts
  • Apple slices with peanut butter
  • Greek yogurt with granola
  • Whole-grain crackers and hummus

These snacks release energy slowly and help you stay focused longer.

5. Sound and Music are Natural Energy Boosters for Remote Workers

At-home-voice-activated speaker sitting on a counter in a bedroom

Shutterstock; Photo by Rawpixel.com

Sometimes your brain just needs a reset. Music or background sounds can help shift your mental state. Try instrumental music, ambient noise, or nature sounds to help refocus your mind.

Tip for Agents:
During non-call periods or admin time, low-volume background music can be both soothing and energizing.

6. Switch Tasks (Briefly) to Overcome Fatigue and Stay Productive at Home

If you’ve been doing the same thing for a while, your mind might be on autopilot. Try switching to a different type of task to “reset” your focus. This might mean organizing your workspace, responding to quick emails, or taking a few minutes to brainstorm tomorrow’s goals.

Why It Works:
A mental shift can stimulate your brain and break up fatigue without requiring a full break.

7. Mindful Breathing and Meditation: Quick and Easy Hacks for Remote Workers

Woman meditating in the sunlight at home

Shutterstock; Photo by Caterina Trimarchi

Sometimes mental fatigue stems from stress or mental overload. A few deep breaths or a 3-minute guided meditation can help reset your nervous system and bring you back to center.

Try apps like:

  • Insight Timer
  • Calm
  • Headspace

Even a few mindful minutes can reframe your entire afternoon.


Create Your Ideal Afternoon Routine with Effective Midday Slump Solutions

The beauty of working remotely as an independent contractor is having the flexibility to create a rhythm that works for you. At Working Solutions, we believe in empowering agents to succeed not just professionally—but personally. Managing your energy is part of that.

Instead of pushing through with another cup of coffee, try listening to your body and giving it what it really needs. With the right mix of light, movement, nourishment, and mindfulness, you can turn your midday slump into a productivity reboot.

Looking for more remote work tips and energy hacks?

Check out our blogs for more resources to help you thrive as a work-from-home professional.