Consulting Tip #06: Skipping Breakfast – A Consultant’s Take on Intermittent Fasting 🕚
Hi there,
I just wrapped up a two-day client workshop for a project that’s been developing a federated, Europe-wide system for sharing open data. After nearly two years of involvement, it’s been an intense yet rewarding deep dive into the challenges of large-scale, cross-border digital infrastructure. But now, with the project nearing completion, the finish line is finally in sight!
To finish the first day, the client treated us to a great dinner and a well-earned sauna session in their rooftop sauna facilities—a fantastic way to wind down after a long, productive day.
And speaking of focus and energy, let’s talk about something that has helped me stay sharp over the years—intermittent fasting.
As consultants, we’re constantly juggling meetings, deadlines, and travel, all while trying to maintain peak productivity. Finding a sustainable way to manage energy levels and meal planning can be just as valuable as the latest productivity hack.
That’s why today, I’m sharing something a little different—intermittent fasting, a simple, flexible eating pattern I’ve followed for nearly a decade.
💡 Why? Because for me, breakfast is the most overrated meal of the day.
💼 Consulting Tip 06: Try Intermittent Fasting
Intermittent fasting (IF) simply means limiting your eating window each day. There are many ways to do it, but I’ve been following the 16:8 method, meaning:
✅ Eating window: 8 hours (11 AM–7 PM or 12 PM–8 PM)
✅ Fasting window: 16 hours (only consuming water, tea, or coffee)
✅ No breakfast, no late-night snacks
I follow this pattern almost every weekday but relax on vacations and weekends.
At first, I just wanted to see how my body and mind would react to longer fasting periods. The potential health benefits also intrigued me—better blood sugar control, weight management, cognitive function, and reduced inflammation.
However, recent studies have shown mixed results. While many findings are positive, at least one study points to potential risks. As with any lifestyle change, it’s important to stay informed and consider both the benefits and drawbacks.
10 Years of Intermittent Fasting – What Have I Noticed?
✅ No more hunger crashes or blood sugar swings.
I’m not at the mercy of my blood sugar levels, so I can go half a day without food if needed—super convenient when traveling or on busy days.
✅ Stable energy and focus.
Overall, my energy levels feel consistent throughout the day. However, I find that my morning focus is slightly sharper when I stick to coffee and tea instead of starting with a heavy breakfast. As for sleep, I haven't noticed any difference—so for me, there's no need to "fuel up" before bedtime.
✅ Easier weight management.
I haven’t tracked calories in years, but I naturally seem to eat a little less without feeling restricted.
✅ Simpler meal planning.
No need to figure out a “healthy” breakfast every morning. And when I want to enjoy one on weekends? I go all in.
🤔 Should You Try It?
Intermittent fasting isn’t for everyone, but it’s a simple, flexible way to structure eating. If you’re considering it, start with an easy 12-hour fasting window and gradually extend it.
For me, after 10 years, it’s just part of my daily routine—not a diet.
👉 Have you tried intermittent fasting? What’s your experience? Comment or reply—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Best regards,
Eetu Niemi
📚 Looking for More Inspiration?
Check out my books on IT consulting for practical advice, career tips, and strategies to thrive in the industry.
💡 Dive Deeper into Enterprise Architecture
Subscribe to my Substack newsletter, Enterprise Architecture Transformation, for strategies and in-depth analysis on EA and organizational transformation.