Energy Givers vs. Energy Takers
Energy Givers vs. Energy Takers
“If you don’t like the road you’re walking, start paving another one.” – Dolly Parton
While listening to a sports program on SiriusXM a few days ago, one of the commentators discussed the value of identifying the people in life who give energy vs. those who take energy.
“You know, I’ve been around this stuff for a long time, and the fact is that these athletes have very similar skills. Therefore, in many cases, it comes down to mental preparation. It’s for this reason that it’s far better to hang around people who give you energy vs. those who take it away from you.”
The more I thought about this comment, the more it resonated. It makes sense that I will be far more productive if I hang around people who support my ideas vs. those who think I am wasting my time.
Energy Takers
Here is what an “energy taker” conversation will look like:
ME: “Hey, Rob, I’ve been thinking of changing careers and doing something where I have a strong passion. It will take additional training for the next year or so, but I think I will be happier in the work that I do.”
ROB: “Jimmie, that’s crazy! Why would you want to invest a year of your life doing something that you are not sure will make you happier. From what I can tell, you are just fine with where you are right now. I think you would be making a big mistake!”
If you consider this part of the conversation, it might just be enough to stop someone in their tracks. The immediate feedback was negative, which would make one think that it is indeed a bad idea to consider investing in the future.
Energy Givers
SON: “Dad, I was thinking about studying overseas for a year after completing my undergraduate degree. I think this experience will be great for my future, and it might also help me when I apply to graduate school here in the States. I understand the money issue here, but I really want to do it. What do you think?”
DAD: “I love the idea! There is no doubt that global experience will make you a better person, and it will improve your resume for sure. I understand we need to discuss the costs, so let’s talk about the budget here soon. I will chat with your mom, and I’m sure we can help you make it work.”
The immediate positive reaction from the father sets a positive tone. Even though the challenge is significant, the initial can-do energy allows the possibility for positive action.
Positive Action
In my case, even when I receive negative feedback regarding something I want to do, I often ignore the stop sign. Over the years, I have learned that positive gains are often on the other side of big challenges.
Also, most people are unwilling to do the hard work necessary to yield the big results. Therefore, it is much easier for them to share negative energy with others, hoping that they too will settle for the status quo.
If you are reading to this point, I have a good feeling you are interested in positive energy, and I hope I have shared it with you today.
Inspiring Quotes
“Try to be a rainbow in someone else’s cloud.” – Maya Angelou
“If it wasn’t hard, everyone would do it. It’s the hard that makes it great.” – Tom Hanks
Homework Inquiry
During the next week, here’s your homework inquiry: What one challenge will you overcome?
I use this opportunity to share with you a unique story and a couple inspiring quotes. Oh ... as a professor at heart, you guessed it, I have a homework inquiry for you. This is a powerful question that might just trigger you to take action on something that really matters in your life. If you feel the Catalyst Newsletter brings benefit to you,
please share this link with others!
See you next week!
Dr. Jimmie Flores