The personal energy crisis

Our ability to focus, concentrate and stay motivated fluctuates in response to the gazillion distractions, thoughts and feelings we experience in a day.

All this tests one’s energy level – and personal energy is a precious resource.

A sampling of the distractions and stimuli that may de-energize and throw us off include:

• Physical sensations, pains and tensions.
• Internal dialogue of the negative variety – especially self-defeating thoughts.
• People who push our buttons and trigger unproductive reactions.
• Unwanted tasks, work and responsibilities – ranging from boring to complicated and time-consuming.

Each of us can easily add specific personal examples of the distractions that get in the way of our higher priority interests or goals. It goes without saying that the online world, smart phones and too much information in general can sap energy levels.

From my own experience and from years of coaching people who are ultimately seeking solutions on how to become more effective, more productive, and more balanced, a big part of the answer lies in directing your energy so you focus on working toward your priorities:

• Knowing what you want to accomplish, achieve or work on NOW. What is most important to you? Where would you like to concentrate your attention?
• Freeing up the ‘psychological,’ ‘emotional’ or ‘physical ’ space you need to make room for a change, a new opportunity, a task or a project.
• Reminding yourself every day of your hopes and aspirations.
• Teaching yourself to recover quickly whenever you become sidetracked, distracted or derailed by energy-depleting thoughts, people or tasks.

 
The better you manage your energy, the better you manage your time

Years ago I started paying significant attention to recognizing two extremes:  1) when I felt energized, confident and motivated; and 2) when I felt drained, distracted, depleted or unfocused.

This led me to create a workshop on how to harness your energy in order to improve your time management skills.  I have given it several times, with good results.

The underlying thesis: The better you manage your energy, the better you manage your time.  The benefits include increased focus, concentration, motivation and engagement – all of which underlie professional and personal effectiveness.

If you want to be a better manager of your energy and time, think about what using time well means to you. Consider which routines and practices (AKA good habits) are worth developing and how might you overcome some of your internal challenges (AKA bad habits).

Also, think about how you can make choices and decisions aligned with your goals, interests or priorities – and not against them.

Get Energized,
Coach Minda

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Coach Minda has developed, implemented and managed educational and training programs for over twenty years – for blue chip companies, professional associations and non-profit organizations.

In my coaching practice I help clients develop routines and practices to effectively use time to achieve professional and personal goals.  

Visit my www.coachminda.com to learn more about my work history and achievements.