In The Power of Full Engagement, Jim Loehr and Tony Schwarz write that managing energy, not time, is the key to high performance. To be engaged, we must be energized physically, emotionally connected, mentally focused and spiritually aligned with a purpose beyond our self-interest.
For that to happen we also need rest and recovery – something that is less valued in many western cultures. Doing, activities and hard work are okay, but just being, resting or reflection are less appreciated.
Balance your energy
We must balance energy expenditure with energy renewal and live less linear but more rhythmically. Both overuse and underuse will diminish our energy so we should keep a healthy tension, according to the authors.
We can follow the pulse of life – rest when it is possible, run when it is needed. Currently, our lives are linear because we follow our pre-set schedules and, thus, we are exhausted and live as flat-liners.
To become stronger, we must push beyond our normal limits, then rest to recover – and you’ll be stronger than before. Just like when you would train your muscle power, you can train your energy in the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual fields.
The key is to use periodic stress – and then recover. This requires a willingness to endure short-term discomfort to gain long-term benefits. But, please check whether you feel challenged instead of threatened. It only works as long as you feel safe – as a game in which you are learning to become more energetic.
The importance of breaks
Their book offers practical advice if you feel that you can do better with regards to sleep, food, physical exercise, positive emotions, relaxation from stress, cognitive energy and enhancing your intrinsic motivation.
Loehr and Schwarz recommend to take 60-90 seconds breaks that can help you recover:
- breathe consciously
- listen to your favorite song
- make a quick call to someone you like
- walk up and down the stairs
- stretch in your office.
How do your habits enhance or limit your energy?
How much negative energy do you invest in defense mechanisms as opposed to positive energy in productivity and growth?
How much energy do you spend on yourself and others?
How wisely do you spend your energy and how well do you recharge?
How is your energy? What could you improve? Sleep, relaxation, food, exercise, emotions, self-talk and thinking habits, or motivation and meaningful purpose?
This is book post #44 – ME
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If you’re confused – please start with post #1 or check the Positive Power overview and read the Positive Agent Manifesto.
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