Energy Budgeting
One of my most requested topics to speak on is Energy Budgeting. What exactly does this look like for introverts vs. extroverts, how you can properly manage your energy through the days, weeks, and months and how to tune into your body and instinctively know when to slow down.
As you start afresh week, do you feel depleted or jazzed up about your week ahead? Knowing how to budget your energy is much like budgeting your finances; consider your energy in terms of currency. For example, when someone is trying to sell you something (or invite you somewhere), you must think if it is worth your dollar or, in this case, your energy.
Introvert vs. Extrovert
Whether you are an introvert or extrovert, how you budget your energy will be much different. Introverts tend to be homebodies and have an internal processing system, meaning large group settings, such as parties, generally deplete their energy. In this case, you must consider how this will affect you, whether it is worth it for you to attend such events or not, and how you will recoup from that. On the other hand, Extroverts tend to process out loud, meaning high energy events will generally refill their energy bank.
Energy Blocking
For me, I will take a look ahead at my week, month, year, and even holiday seasons to create boundaries around how I will spend my energy. This way, I can account for those times that will cost me more and schedule in that time to relax and rejuvenate after the fact. One of my best tools for day-to-day productivity has been time blocking, also known as energy blocking. For this tool to work correctly, you must determine your peak hours and schedule those mundane tasks during those hours. It is also essential to listen and tune into your body to know when you need a rest. I know that once my processing slows down, my window of tolerance becomes low, and my creative interests decrease; I am in energy debt. I understand that this is my time to lean into those modalities that give back to me and refill my energy bank.
Modalities for refilling your energy bank
Some of the best modalities that I recommend to help refill your energy bank are;
Breathe work; just three deep breaths can allow the nervous system to slow and calm the body.
Mindfulness, getting out of the thoughts in your head, and coming back to your breath, a great exercise I like to do with my clients is; have them explain five things in great detail.
Meditation; allows the body to calm and enter a relaxed state.
Exercise will improve your mood, boost your energy and improve your sleep, all of which will fill your energy bank.
Learning how to set boundaries and intentionally budget your energy will allow you to bring in so much abundance and wealth. It will help you avoid energetic debt, begin to experience flow within your life, and bring in joy.
Your energy is your currency. Your energy fuels you to live out your purpose to make an impact on those around you. You cannot serve if you are depleted and burnt out; ensure you are refilling your energy bank first.
As always, I rise, you rise.