What’s the first thing you do when you walk into a dark room? You turn on the light switch. Deciding to stumble around and feel your way through would be senseless in most cases.
Consider sitting behind the wheel of your car. Until you turn the key in the ignition, that powerful V-6 (or VVT-i 4-cylinder) engine won’t do you a ton of good.
See, our energy works much the same way. It’s stored up waiting to be switched on. We can read all the motivation and know exactly what we should be doing to grow in life, but until we make the choice to make a move, we lie dormant.
I’ve watched team members trudge in to work on Monday, but as soon as Friday arrived, they were charging for the door. Energy switched “ON” at 4 p.m. Friday! What? Yes, our corporations are filled with employees showing up, but not truly engaging.
Many powerful warriors sit on the sidelines of their homes, their churches and their communities for various reasons. Perhaps they truly lack physical energy. Maybe the thought of what will happen (success or failure) paralyzes them. Maybe they don’t believe their leadership role is that important or has a significant impact on others. Maybe they don’t know how or where to begin and “elephant-sized” anxiety overwhelms them.
To switch energy and passion on in our lives, we have to make a mental choice to activate. Attend the meeting and sit on the edge of your seat. Take ownership of a task. Take notes. Give feedback. Engage. Pick up the phone and call someone just to say, “I love you.” Smile. High five some random person. Make energy happen inside so it can flow outside. Ignite your energy and show up with your best! Give your best!
When you get home for the evening, take five minutes to write your notes, finish social posts or call a client back. But baby, when you step in that door, get yourself a big glass of water and switch that energy right back on for your best clients – that wife and kid(s). Play, cheer them on, listen to them recount their day, ooh-and-aah over their homework and be fully present. This is switching on your energy!
Just like pushing yourself in the gym, you’re often surprised at your own strength. Start asking more of your energy reserves and you’ll be surprised how much engagement and passion is stored up inside. Believe in others and know that by showing up with energy for them, you make lasting impact!
Switch it on! Let it flow.
igniting energy…tim
