Manage Your Life

Friday, November 27, 2009

5 life energy drains you need to stop putting up with right now

We all have certain people or processes in our lives that leech our energy away, sometimes without our even noticing. Even if we eat healthy foods, exercise, and take time out to rest, a high level of energy at the beginning of the day can be slowly stolen away by energy drains. Although each personal situation is unique, here is a list of 5 common energy drains for all of us:

1. Clutter. One life coach begins her work with every client by focusing on “de-cluttering” their life: overflowing closets, junk drawers that barely close, stacks of papers or laundry, a garage that looks like a tornado swept through it, etc. If your desk is already a disaster area when you first sit down in the morning, your energy is already being drained before you’ve even begun. De-clutter! 

2. Procrastination. You know that thing in your house, office, or car that needs repair? The one you think about every day? How about the project, task, or appointment that you keep postponing, sighing loudly every time you think of it? Procrastination is a huge energy drain, and could lead to greater problems. For example, putting off the repair of a leaky roof can not only result in damage to your home during a major storm, but it could also strain your relationship with whomever lives in the house with you! Don’t put it off another day – carve out the time to get it done!

3. Control issues. How often do you waste your energy trying to control situations or people that are totally outside your control or influence? And how often do you waste your energy complaining or worrying about situations where you do have some control or influence, but haven’t taken action yet? By learning to control what you can, and letting go of what you cannot, you free yourself from this energy drain!

4. Negative people. Attitude is contagious. Even if you’re having a good day and generally feeling OK about life in general, a group of negative people can quickly drag you down. Gravitate toward positive, uplifting people in your life – and be one in return!

5. Comparing yourself to others. When you see others as more talented, smarter, more attractive, or somehow better than you are, your energy is being drained constantly. Stop comparing and simply be content with who you are and what you have! “Sunflowers aren't better than violets.”

May you stop putting up with energy drains and enjoy more vitality in your life!

About the Author

Dr. Deb has a Ph.D. in psychology, an MBA with a project management specialization, and DDI certification as a corporate trainer. Follow her at Twitter.com/DrDebBrown.

More Articles From Dr. Deb Brown on Intent.com

Choose a Balanced Life Aligned With Your Personal Values
Do Your Work, Then Step Back
A Positive Attitude Could Extend Your Life

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From the Community…

Comments 1-2 of 2
  • Katie B's Avatar
    Posted by Katie B Tue Oct 27, 2009 7:30am PDT

    #4 has to be my biggest energy drain... and it doesn't matter where I meet them... whether online or in real life... they just seem to suck all the energy out of me...

    1 and 2 I am getting better about...

    Report Abuse
  • Angie's Avatar
    Posted by Angie Wed Oct 28, 2009 5:56am PDT

    Oh wow I like this. I never thought of that. I think this article was written for me since I do all of those things. WOW well now I guess I'm going to have to start working on a few things myself to get rid of all those things. THanks!

    Report Abuse
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