One Positive Action

Evening Energy Reflection

Many of us have fallen into a cycle of ending the day thinking about what we did and didn’t do. What did we check off the list? What did we forget? What’s still waiting for us tomorrow? But what if, instead, we ended the day thinking about how we felt? Truthfully, your daily energy is just as important as your to-do list. When you are able to look at your routines and interactions and determine what lifts your spirit or weighs you down, you can shape your own life to be one that is abundant with joy.

This is how I began my Evening Energy Reflection, which has changed my life in the best way. Before bed, take a couple of minutes to write down three things from your day that made you feel energized. These could be moments that made you feel joyful, present, or less stressed. Then write down three things that drained you or negatively impacted you; things that left you feeling stressed, tired, or overwhelmed. Being specific will allow you to get deeper to the root of the issues. Instead of just writing, “work,” you could write “the rushed morning meeting,” or instead of “exercise,” you might write “walk at lunch with a friend.” The goal is to dive into the details that impacted your energy each day.

When you do this practice regularly, you will notice patterns begin to show up. After just a short time of being consistent, you’ll find a deeper sense of clarity on the activities, people, and habits that help you feel your best and the ones that may be leaving you feeling empty or drained. This vulnerable and honest self-reflection ritual will show you how you can start to protect your energy by saying no to certain things, setting clear boundaries, or planning your day so the things that lift you up come first. Over time, you’ll find that your days feel less draining and more balanced, and your energy will be protected.

Tonight, grab a notebook or open your phone’s notes app. Try to write down three energy-givers and three energy-drainers from today. Then highlight one thing you’ll make more room for tomorrow and one thing you’ll try to limit or approach differently. It may feel like a small step at first, but it’s a powerful way to design your life around what truly fuels you.