Our Energetic Currency
Imagine we woke up every day with one hundred pennies that we have to make last the entire day. These coins are a representation of our energy level, and with every intention, thought, and action, we deplete our funds. Would we find we are spending it wisely?
Think about it - every moment spent doom-scrolling on our phones, holding onto a grudge, choosing fast food over cooking, mulling over that one thing someone said to us once years ago - it all takes energy away from you that you can’t get back. The more pennies you give those, the fewer you have on the things that pay you back, plus interest.
Life is a whirlwind. it is easy to feel drained, overwhelmed, and like we're constantly running on empty. The demands of modern day living having become so great that by midday, most of us are completely energetically depleted. Many of us are not just broke, but massively in debt (they do say money is energy).
Just like we budget our finances, so, too, must we budget our energy. It is our most precious resource. In our hyper-connected world, countless stimuli compete for our attention. Social media, media headlines, work, and family obligations all demand a piece of our energy pie. But are we truly discerning where our energy is going? Are we investing it in ways that align with our values and goals, or are we allowing it to be drained by the relentless demands of modern life? Are we investing in thoughts that bring us joy or wear us down?
Not only is energy fatigue, well, tiring, but being chronically stuck in negative thought and action patterns can have a detrimental effect on our bodies. Neuroscience tells us that our brains are wired to conserve energy, and constant stimulation can lead to cognitive overload and mental fatigue. Psychological research has shown that dwelling on negativity can trigger a cascade of stress hormones that keep us in a state of chronic fight-or-flight. This can quickly lead to adrenal fatigue, lowered immune function, insomnia, and a slew of other ailments. That said, the same research has shown that positive thoughts - those filled with love and gratitude - greatly reduce stress levels, increase immune function, better cardiovascular health, and so much more!
The good news? YOU have the power to reclaim your energy! Understanding that energy is a finite resource is the first step towards reclaiming your power. But how do you actually put this knowledge into practice?
Become Aware of Your Energy Leaks: Start by paying attention to how your thoughts, actions, and interactions make you feel. Notice what drains your energy and what replenishes it. Do you feel energized after spending time with certain people, or does it leave you feeling depleted? Does scrolling through Instagram make you feel connected, or does it trigger anxiety and comparison?
Set Boundaries: Our energy is precious, and we have the right to protect it. Learning to say "no" is a powerful act of self-preservation, and it is perfectly okay to decline invitations, delegate tasks, or simply take some time for ourselves. Set boundaries with technology by turning off notifications, limiting your screen time, or creating tech-free zones in your home.
Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to the present moment without judgment. It allows us to become more aware of our thoughts and emotions. By cultivating mindfulness, we can develop a greater sense of self-awareness and make more conscious choices about how we spend our energy. Start by incorporating short mindfulness exercises into your daily routine, such as focusing on your breath, noticing the sensations of your body, or simply observing your surroundings without judgment.
Invest in What Matters: Once we have identified our energy leaks and set healthy boundaries, it is time to start investing our energy in activities that truly nourish us. This could include spending time in nature, pursuing creative hobbies, connecting with loved ones, practicing gratitude, or simply doing nothing. By making time for activities that bring us joy and fulfillment, we will watch our energy levels soar.
Cultivate Positive Emotions: Research has shown that positive emotions, such as joy, gratitude, and love, have a profound impact on our well-being and energy levels. Make a conscious effort to focus on the positive aspects of your life. We can practice gratitude by writing down three things we are thankful for each day. Surround yourself with positive people and engage in activities that uplift your spirit.
Just as a savvy investor carefully chooses where to allocate their funds, so too must we be discerning with our energy. Each thought, each interaction, each activity is an investment. Choose your investments wisely!