Learning to Master Your Four Forms of Energy

Different tasks don’t just take different amounts of energy, they take different types of energy.

If you feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or often worn out, that likely means one of your four forms of energy needs to be refilled.

So what are the four forms of energy and how can you refill them? I outline each below:

1. Physical Energy

This one is fairly obvious.

To keep your physical energy up, ask yourself what rhythms, supplements, diets, exercise routines, rest, or recreation create peak production, strength, and energy.

I’ve been studying how my body responds to different habits for over a decade. For example, I’ve learned I work best in the morning, I’m at my healthiest when I have an intentional meal plan, and it's helpful if I limit screen time before bed.

Each person is different, so you’ll want to figure out what works best for you with these questions:

• What time of day do I function best?
• Do I drink enough water throughout the day?
• Do I have an intentional plan for what I’ll eat and when I’ll exercise throughout the day?
• How do stimulants like caffeine and screen time affect my productivity and sleep?

You cannot manage what you do not measure, so experiment and see what works best for you.

2. Emotional Energy

When you make decisions, have difficult interactions, or try to solve problems, you’re spending emotional energy.

You cannot lead at your highest level or love from the deepest part of your heart when you’re emotionally empty.

When you are emotionally depleted, it’s wise to know specifically what refills your emotional tank. Maybe you reawaken by spending time with family or going to a party. Or, maybe you love to take a walk in nature, journal, or listen to music.

Identify whatever it is that refills your emotional energy, and then prioritize those activities.

3. Mental/Creative Energy

One way to refill your mental tank is to seek out inspirational and creative inputs.

Take in new information, perspectives, and ideas by spending time with people who challenge you or by learning new concepts in books, podcasts, or articles. I’ve done this by turning my downtime into learning time.

For me, I even refill this tank by giving out creatively through teaching and writing. You may try a creative outlet to refill your mental tank. But be aware: Balance the intake with the output. If you have no outlet, you can easily be left frustrated.

4. Spiritual Energy

Sometimes when we feel past the point of exhaustion, we might be more than physically drained, emotionally depleted, or mentally worn out. It could be that we are spiritually empty.

Perhaps the best place to find strength, energy, purpose, and passion isn’t just in physical success, but in living for a higher purpose from a higher power.

If you’re spiritually searching, try praying, watching a message from Life.Church, or even downloading our free Bible app.

Maybe a little spiritual energy is what you really need!

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