Had surgery a year ago, and drank coffee basically every day since in order to minimize inflammation.
I stopped again about two months ago and coffee was definitely a net negative for energy overall.
Nothing beats the buzz it gives first thing in the morning, but without it I'm able to be productive in afternoons and evenings again and sleep far better.
It's really hard to give up. I've quit multiple times for periods of a month or two. Takes a few weeks to taper off. I also felt the same benefits as you mention, but life (especially mornings) was boring. A cup of coffee in the morning is pure bliss that you can enjoy every day.
This is not a truth I want to hear gosh darnnit.
Have you tried delaying caffeine intake an hour or two? Works quite well for me
