Our Energetic Plumbing
Living well is a constant challenge. The goal for all of us is to be in flow - it's magical when we find ourselves in the balance of energy given and energy received. When we have a healthy balance of push and pull. A balance of work and rest. Achieving balance in life, in my experience, can be incredibly challenging. Left to our own devices - without the constant challenges of other people and their demands - creating a balanced life would be easy! It is the constant life hurdles that are put in our way that make life bumpy.
I am a huge fan of planning, reconciling and processing. The speed that we live life at makes it easy to never stop and check in with where you are at. What are you planning? What has gone well? What would you have done differently? How do you feel about the way you were recently treated or learned from an experience that you recently had? These are constant questions running through my mind. Taking time to consider is vital if you want to grow.
Something I check in with regularly is my energy leaks and blocks. These sneaky little saboteurs can drain our energy and are often the cause of unexplained exhaustion or lack of productivity, Energy leaks are those small, often unnoticed drains on your energy—like unnecessary clutter in your head or reactive behaviours that waste your time. Blockers, on the other hand, are more significant barriers that obstruct your flow of energy. Negative beliefs, toxic relationships, and financial stress are all big blockers in people's lives. Recognizing your blocks is the start of good energy management!
Step 1: Identify Your Energy Contributors and Contaminators
Make a list of your energy contributors, the things and people that energize you, and contaminators, the things and people that drain you.
Contributors: Uplifting friends, fulfilling activities, positive environments.
Contaminators: Toxic relationships, cluttered spaces, negative self-talk.
Step 2: Address the Leaks
Energy leaks can be subtle yet persistent. Here are some common leaks and how to plug them:
Unnecessary Clutter: Physical and mental clutter can drain your energy. Declutter your space and practice mindfulness to clear your mind. Tripping over shoes every time you arrive home is an ideal example. Something that constantly irritates you and erodes your mood and drops your energy. Walk around your physical spaces and identify things that annoy you.
Reactive Behaviours: Being reactive instead of proactive wastes energy. Planning and being in charge of your time and calendar helps us to feel organised and ahead. Being proactive means to be “in control of your controllables’ - to have a plan can save you from leaking energy by having to respond to things on the spot.
Overcommitting: Saying yes to everything spreads your energy thin. Learn to say no and prioritise what truly matters. Get in the habit of pausing before responding so you can make a decision that's right for you rather than pleasing the person standing in front of you!
Step 3: Remove the Blockers
Blockers can be harder to identify. These can be lifelong beliefs and habits.
Negative Beliefs: These can destroy your confidence. Challenge these beliefs and replace them with positive affirmations. Catching negative self-talk and responding with a positive version of the same statement will start the process of identifying and changing unhelpful beliefs. Keeping a written record of recurring negative self-talk is a great way to track and change it.
Toxic Relationships: Some people drain your energy. Evaluate your relationships and set boundaries or distance yourself from those who bring negativity or toxicity. Who is constantly demanding of you? Who makes you feel heavy or pressured?
Financial Stress: Money worries can be a significant energy blocker. Review your finances, create a budget, and seek professional advice if needed. Money issues get way more complicated than they need to be. You can either spend less or earn more… often people cannot identify what the actual issue is - they have no idea what money is coming in or out and are too scared to look! Be brave. Ask questions. Look at the facts.
Step 4: Create a Supportive Environment
Your environment plays a huge role in your energy levels. Here are some tips to create an energy-boosting environment:
Surround Yourself with Positivity: Engage with people who uplift and support you. Watch and read things that are inspiring and positive. Avoid negative people and situations.
Optimize Your Space: Keep your living and working spaces organized, clutter-free and purposeful. Zones for specific activities help. Surround yourself with things that make you feel good and live well!
Practice Gratitude: Regularly acknowledge and appreciate the good things in your life. This simple practice can shift your focus from what's draining you to what's fueling you.
Step 5: Maintain Your Energy Flow
Once you’ve addressed the leaks and blockers, it’s about maintaining that flow of positive energy. Here are some ongoing practices to keep your energy high:
Self-Care: Regularly take time for activities that rejuvenate your mind and body —whether it’s something creative, inspiring, energising or relaxing.
Mindfulness and Meditation: These practices can help you stay centered and focused, reducing the impact of potential energy drains.
Continuous Evaluation: Periodically review your energy contributors and contaminators. Life changes and so do your energy dynamics.
Dealing with energy leaks and blockers is important work that helps you to live your life being proactive and intentional. By identifying and addressing these issues, you can guard your energy and maintain a positive, healthy life. We all have the power to manage our energy effectively and create a vibrant and interesting life.
LISA LOVES:
I have aromatherapy diffusers in all of my most used spaces. My favourite is it's quiet and comes with its own remote! The ultrasonic diffusion releases negative ions into the air. These help counteract mould, pollen, bacteria and dust while the oils you choose can impact your mood and motivation!
