Personal energy is the only real asset that you have and you must protect it fearlessly.
Unlike your car’s need for fuel, your personal need for energy is very complicated. The consequence of running low on personal energy is very damaging to your life.
So, what’s the answer? Countless books have been written on the subject and most of them contain good advice. Simple answers like don’t read columns like this all the time, don’t check your e-mail all day, take a brisk walk, get enough sleep, don’t overeat, exercise, lose weight are all great advice. But, it is not enough. Let’s go deeper.
The renewal of personal energy, sufficient energy to live and enjoy the life that is possible, must begin with a one basic and profound life adjustment. Learn to say "NO!"
Stop agreeing to do too many things.
Stop trying to live in a house you can’t afford.
Stop wanting things that you can’t pay for.
Stop trying to do so much that no amount of personal energy would be enough to accomplish your goals, much less today’s to-do list.
Eliminate some board positions or committees.
Set your hours, set your boundaries with late night and weekend work.
Be careful not to start too many marketing or business initiatives. Be more selective.
What—not stretch? Yea, that’s what I am saying. But isn’t that the American Way? Yes and I guess that is why we are the heart attack capital of the world.
Instead really determine what is possible, what is likely, and what you are really capable of doing and stop stretching yourself so for and in so many directions. It’s OK not to be everything to everyone and agree not to do too many things all at once all the time. It’s OK to admit that you just can’t afford something right now and may be ever. It’s OK to admit that you just can’t take on one more obligation or opportunity.
The advice for the day: In addition to not reading a bunch of articles like this, checking your email too much, eating too much, not exercising and all that other great advice, take control of your life by learning to "Just Say No."
And of course, when my staff reads this column they are going to roll their eyes at me. They will say, "You should take your own advice Joel." Well, I think they are correct.
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