Managing your energy is a key component of living and leading authentically as an introvert.
As an introvert, you get energy from alone time. Our extroverted world doesn’t always understand or support this, so it’s important to take the initiative and take care of yourself.
I know that if I don’t manage my energy properly, I get tired and very, very cranky. I can’t think right and I have no patience. Not good for me, and not good for anyone else.
Here are three steps to managing your energy as an introvert:
- Most introverts love to plan, so lean into that strength. Take a few minutes at the end of your day – or the beginning, whichever works better – to look at the day’s schedule and identify times you can take recharge time. If you’re able, schedule meetings with breaks in-between so you can take a few moments to breathe. Identify your built-in alone times, like time in the car. Block those moments out, and make a commitment to use them. Make sure you have whatever you’ll want to chill with: music, a book, noise-cancelling headphones.
- Set expectations. Let the folks in your life know that you need this alone time. They may not understand at first, but them knowing – and experiencing – that the time you take alone makes you better able to show up will help. And, you’re modeling good self-care for those other introverts in your life who may need some support.
- Actually take the time! This can be difficult, especially for us recovering people pleasers. You might get a side-eye for turning down lunch with your colleagues in order to take a walk or eat in your car. Your partner might not understand at first why you need “driveway time” before you come into your home. Stay strong. Remember, taking care of you helps you take care of everything else.
- Bonus tip: in addition to daily and weekly alone time, plan longer periods on a regular basis. I once had a therapist who took off one week per quarter to recharge.
Managing your energy isn’t “selfish” in a negative way. It’s making sure you have (pick a metaphor) your own mask on first/your cup filled/your battery charged, so you can do all the things that the day calls for.
I’d like to hear from you. What strategies do you use to manage your energy?
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