We start each and every day with a valuable resource.

We’re so used to relying on this resource that we hardly notice it’s there.

And when it dwindles, it can bring us to a complete stop.

But what is this resource?

It’s energy.

...but, in my eyes, it’s way more fun to call it gusto.

Losing our gusto can happen at the peak of success. It can happen when you’re enjoying the passion of a moment. Or it can happen when you’re in a period of transition or redefining your life goals.

It can even happen during routine moments of your everyday life.

We all know what it feels like to lose our gusto. But it happens. And when it happens, we lose control. We lose motivation. We lose energy. We can even lose our capacity to reach our full potential. (I go more into how to reach your full potential here.)

That is the worst thing that can happen.

In our Leadership Programs, we advise our clients that there is one way to beat losing your energy. And it's simple. You have to figure out how to manage your energy.

How to manage your energy.

We all have those days when we just don’t seem to have the energy to do anything. It feels as if everything is a challenge. You have to push about ten times harder to get things done.

We become frustrated, because it’s not that we don’t know how to handle challenges—it’s just that our energy levels are low.

We have no gusto.

"It's more important to manage your energy than to manage your time."  - John C. Maxwell

Without being able to manage your energy, you simply won’t be able to manage your time. No matter how well you manage your schedule, if you don’t have the energy to go about your routine, you won’t be able to accomplish your goals to your full potential.

Everything we do comes from our energy. Our gusto.

So what does gusto feel like?

Maya Angelou once said: "My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor and some style."

So, take the time.

Take the time to find out what brings energy and joy into your life, and what takes energy out.

By taking time to really focus on what gives you energy and joy, you will live with gusto.

What drains your energy?

There are all sorts of things that can slowly drain your personal energy level.

But do you know what they are?

Here are just a few:

• Talking about problems without looking for solutions.
• Taking criticism the wrong way
• Doing too many things at the same time.
• Overthinking.
• Stressing out about things you can’t change.
• Knowing that change is imminent without planning anything new.
• Failing to take time to recharge.
• Living or working in a cluttered space.

What gives you energy?

When we teach our Mastermind Course, we touch on several different things that can improve leadership skills and help managers overcome challenges. Some of the things we focus on include what gives people energy.

While exercise, a good diet, and enough sleep are the basics of sustaining a healthy level of energy, there are lots of other things you can do to give yourself energy, including:

• Go for a walk after lunch to boost your metabolism.
• Put a plant or a vase of cut flowers in your office.
• Practice meditation techniques in your spare time.
• Use a standing desk to improve circulation and reduce muscle fatigue.
• Organize your workspace so you can keep your desk clear.
  Instead of another cup of coffee, try doing stretches at your desk.
• Listen to a funny podcast on the way home from work.

Don’t let negative energy define you. Walk with gusto. Act with gusto. Live with gusto.

"Today is life—the only life you are sure of. Make the most of today. Get interested in something. Shake yourself awake. Develop a hobby. Let the winds of enthusiasm sweep through you.
Live today with gusto."  Dale Carnegie

 Call to Action:

1. For the next week, observe your energy level throughout each workday.
2. Write down the top four things that drain your energy.
3. Write down the top four things that replenish your energy.
4. How will you keep your energy level in balance?

Your Friends,
UpCloseTeam