Four Faces of Energy

A few weeks ago, we explored the challenge of maintaining and renewing personal energy. Human energy arises from a complex array of dynamics. In The Power of Full Engagement, Loehr and Schwartz describe four dimensions of energy: physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual.

Physical energy gets us to up in the morning and keeps us moving and alert until we go to bed. It is the foundation of human energy, but does not on its own provide enough impetus to power an effective and enjoyable life.

Emotional energy charges us to engage our fellows. Emotions can generate either negative or positive energy. Negativity is debilitating; it views others as threatening, and triggers the primitive responses of flight or fight. Positive emotion energizes; it reaches out to others with love, and engages their differences in creative and constructive ways. A life charged with positive emotion is rich with fulfilling relationships.

Mental energy enables focus and conscious optimism. When mental energy is high, we can manage our thoughts to serve our values and needs. We are confident in overcoming setbacks and dealing with the unexpected. When we are mentally depleted, we see ourselves as victims. Our thoughts run amok, pulling us in a hundred directions and damaging our ability to focus on the important. A life fueled by mental energy is like a train on track, heading smoothly toward its destination.

Spiritual energy reaches beyond the self and its needs, infusing life with purpose and inspiration. Spiritual energy fires us up to expand our horizons—to dream, to give, and to serve. A life enkindled by purposeful ideals can rise above petty conflicts and short-term irritations to seek and advance a greater good. It is like a bird or a plane, soaring for the horizon.

Reflect on your own energy. Which dimensions of energy are strongest for you, and which could benefit from greater capacity? Loehr and Schwartz move beyond these concepts to provide practical approaches for enhancing each dimension. Stay tuned. More is coming.

Until the next time, be well.

Pam