In the realm of your personal development path, whether applied to business or home, the choices we make either energize or de-energize us. Energizing paths align with our passions, values, and innate talents, fueling our enthusiasm and motivation. For me, writing these blogs each week is energizing. They propel us towards growth, fulfillment, and a sense of purpose.
De-energizing paths drain our vitality and leave us feeling stuck, unfulfilled, and disconnected from our true selves.
Stop. The next moment you are faced with a choice or something you have already committed to, ask: Is this energizing or de-energizing? Go with the first answer that hits you; it happens in a flash. Take note.
A Client Story
There are occasions when you can walk away from de-energizing things in your life other times you cannot. An SVP I coached said it was de-energizing to work with one of his VPs. Could he walk away? No, of course not. We used his answer to learn more about how the VP made him feel and crafted a new approach to the relationship by coaching through some deeper stuff below the surface. Today the relationship is energizing, and he is coaxing a much better performance out of his VP. Meetings are way easier.
An underlying key operating in the client’s story, and the story of everyone else, is self-awareness listening to the whispers of your heart, that inner compass that reveals your needs and wants.
How?
To identify energizing choices, pay attention to your inner compass. Reflect on activities that leave you feeling invigorated, inspired, and alive. What brings a smile to your face and puts a spring in your step?
To recognize de-energizing patterns, pay attention to your emotions and energy levels. What activities leave you feeling drained, disinterested, or uninspired? Identify any recurring situations or relationships that bring about negative feelings. By acknowledging these patterns, you can take steps to minimize their presence in your life, creating space for energizing alternatives. Generally, there are three choices: make a change (if situation can be changed), leave the situation or stay and accept what ‘is’.
Could this be the Holy Grail?
To foster personal and professional growth, it is crucial to identify and embrace energizing choices. Energizing paths are the holy grails of personal development. Find them, embrace them and life will feel lighter and more peaceful leaving valuable energy to live the way you want and have energy reserves for when a big challenge presents itself.
The Stretch
Take 5 minutes right now to reflect on any recurring situations or relationships and ask: Is this energizing or de-energizing? Once you’ve named them go back and re-read this article for valuable structure and reinforcement.
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