One of the biggest benefits of being an entrepreneur in my mind is freedom. Our time is our own. We determine when we “work” and when we don’t, what we do and what we don’t do. All of us have high energy days in which we feel motivated and driven and days in which we don’t. It’s a natural part of the human condition. Of course, if we are to achieve success in our businesses and in our lives it would be to our definite advantage to have an energized, powerful day everyday.
The problem is that with all of this amazing freedom we’ve given ourselves comes the trap of slacking off on those low energy days when we simply don’t “feel like it”.
What many people may not realize (I once didn’t) is that being powerful and effective is actually a choice and we can actually generate energy and be these things even when we don’t “feel like it”.
I really got clear about this when I began my business as a public speaker, a role in which it is important to be powerful, focused and full of energy. Most of the time before I talk to a group, I feel like doing it – I’m excited and full of energy. There are times, however, when I’m having an off day or dealing with some bad news and the energy necessary to be powerful and effective in front of a crowd of people is nowhere in site. With the fear of bombing as my motivator, I quickly found that if I did the things that an effective speaker does the energy would follow. By moving my body around the room, being vigorous with my gestures and expressions, and generating laughter, for example, I found that my energy increased and I was able to be powerful and effective even when at first I didn’t “feel like it”. I could actually generate energy by doing things.
“The higher your energy level, the more efficient your body.
The more efficient your body, the better you feel and the
more you will use your talent to produce outstanding results.”
Tony Robins
Here are a few simple steps you can take to amp up your energy levels and execute with power:
Plan Your Day
Having a daily plan is essential whether you’re feeling energized or not, however, it’s critical during those times when you’re not energized and motivated. A plan keeps you oriented. Start each day by writing down exactly what you’re going to accomplish. Schedule each item. Put definite time-frames for each item. Execute your plan even if you don’t “feel like it”.
Reward Yourself
You work hard each day, so it’s important to treat yourself with something you find pleasurable. This could be a movie night, a dinner date, or walking your dog in the park. Schedule it and honor it as you would any other item on your schedule. You deserve it!
Be Vigorous
Speak powerfully, move around with a pep in your step, shake hands firmly, actively listen to people, make eye contact and smile a lot. These things are infectious. Other people around you will feel energized which will energize you.
Laugh
Laugh for 15 seconds or longer even when you don’t find anything funny going on. When I first heard this, I thought it was a silly thing to do. But, when I tried it, I felt completely energized and happy. Laughing has been scientifically proven to release endorphins. Try it out periodically during your day. You’ll love it!
Move Your body
Your body is built to move. Moving it around is one of the easiest ways to generate energy… and it doesn’t have to be particularly strenuous. Start your day with a 30 minute walk. Take parking spots the FARTHEST from the front door of the store. Take the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator. Take a yoga class. The possibilities are endless… and FUN!
Have a energized and powerful week, everyone!
With Love,
Mike
