Gearing Up for Goals: Managing Energy Gains and Drains

Setting and achieving goals is easier when we are energized and focused. Understanding what leads us to gain and drain energy can help us better define and work towards our goals. Consider the following questions, from Pryor Learning’s Effective Goal-Setting and Planning Skills seminar.

How do you gain energy? Write down…

• Times of day I am focused and work best
• Things/people that give me energy
• How I recharge my batteries

Set time aside to establish and review goals at times when you are focused, with minimal distractions.

What causes you to lose energy? Write down…

• Times of day I drag and am unfocused
• Things/people that drain my energy
• Time wasters I should avoid

Don’t try to set goals or assess your progress when you are tired, down or stressed – use those times for routine tasks that must be done, but that don’t require as much energy and critical thinking.

Here are some other tips for setting goals that will stick through periods of both high and low energy:

• Define goals that will solve problems that are important to you – change is hard, so pick goals you care about!
• Goals are not hopes and wishes – state them as clear targets.
• Be tangible or tactical in how you state the goal – picture yourself in action.
• Be clear on the benefits of achieving your goal – how life will be better for you, your coworkers, customers or family.
• Share your goals with others – being open about your goals will make you more accountable for them, and will set you up to ask for help when you need it.

Energy gives us the power to make changes in our lives. Managing our energy flows helps us be more effective in our work – and in setting and achieving goals. If managing your energy levels is a challenge for you, then establish a goal to work on better energy management first.  Energy, power, goals, change – one day at a time.