As we move into a new year, it’s a good time to reflect on our energy cycles.
I’ve written about the types of energy we need throughout our day.
And created audits to check in with how we are managing that energy.
Yet, I have focused less on how our energy flows each week, month, and year.
December is a great time to think about the energy of the past year and the year ahead.
Looking Back
Step one is looking back and considering the months where you had the most energy.
And the ones that were the most draining.
As you review the list, what caused you to feel energized or drained?
Did you have too many events scheduled, leaving you overwhelmed?
Did a change in weather change the energy?
Did a project have you energized and ready to go each day?
When thinking about the past, notice patterns that might happen every year.
Maybe May is overwhelming and September is full of energy.
Note these trends as you move to considering the year ahead.
Looking Forward
Now, we shift our attention to the new year.
What do you see as the cycles of energy.
Do you think you will start the year running and wear out by March?
Maybe a new burst will come after a spring break or in the middle of summer?
Are there months with many events already on the calendar that will cause overwhelm?
Any projects or activities that need to be done, yet you know they will drain you?
Start to map the energy to plan your goals and progress around the cycles.
Your Turn
Was it easy or difficult to see your daily energy?
Which months do you need to plan for potential overwhelm?
How can you schedule projects to maximize your energy?