Protecting Your Energy Is Not Enough
How many of us have said, "I'm protecting my peace?" Or perhaps, "Someone is draining" or that someone is an "energy vampire?" Those people only call when they want something, so you just watch the phone ring. We've all been there and perhaps have been those energy vampires toward someone else at one time or another. But, the goal in life is to grow, change, and just do better. I'm at that stage in my life right now. Whether it's my mindset, mental health, peace, or energy, I'm no longer protecting it; I'm controlling it.
When we're protecting something, we are constantly on the defense, which becomes more exhausting than we realize. What I've discovered is that we must be in control. Controlling your energy means owning how much is received, given, used, and stored. You're not on the defense because there is nothing anyone can do or say that will shake your foundation because that means they are in control. From my studies and working on this in therapy, I noticed weak spots in the "ownership" of my energy. Certain people, whether family, friends or known energy vampires, could tip the scales and have me completely exhausted by the end of the day. I needed to fortify those areas quickly. Strengthening those areas also forced me to take inventory of myself to ensure that I wasn't projecting the same ills by which I was accusing others.
The first thing I had to do was acknowledge I was a southern-bred people pleaser. Releasing years of learned behavior and faux acceptance. Unlearning was challenging but so rewarding. Then, I had to replace it with vibranium-made boundaries. I know that my energy reserve is at its height in the early mornings and starts to wean by 3pm in the afternoon. So, I get most of my work done by noon. I completely shut my day down by 5pm. Exceptions are made only if scheduled and agreed upon at least a week in advance. It must be on my calendar. Even hanging with friends requires a confirmed calendar invite. It's how I work and plan best. No one day is identical in my line of work, so organization is vital. It's also how I am most present, personable, and engaged. If I agree to show up for someone, I want to be proud and not ashamed because I can barely stay focused.
So, control your energy. Set boundaries. Be OK with people wanting to avoid playing by the rules you've set for your own betterment. Also, question the relationship when someone repeatedly tries to put their enjoyment above your energy or peace. Stay committed and connected by consuming resources (books, audiobooks, podcasts, YouTube videos, etc.) that aid you in this expanded mindset, reinforced lifestyle, and exploratory journey. Take and keep ownership!
To learn more, I found a very insightful article that goes into more detail.
#ControlYourEnergy #ControlYourPeace #Ownership #Growth #JustinKey
