Nowadays, it's the topic on everyone's agenda. It tops the list in every news cycle. In short, it always comes down to the following question: How can we consume less energy? In my coaching practice, energy management is also an important theme that often comes up. But in a different context. "What would you experience and/or achieve if you had more energy?" The focus is not on saving energy, but rather on how to obtain more of it. Most leaders want to achieve more—for themselves, their companies, and the planet—but that requires a significant amount of (positive) energy.

"Everything is Energy" is a famous quote by Albert Einstein. "Energy is everything" is my own quote :-) I'm not a scientist, but I know that if you don't have enough energy, you often don't feel good. Things become more difficult. You accomplish less. You are less inspiring as a leader, have less enjoyment at work, and achieve fewer results.

Investing in your own energy is a must for everyone. Where do you start?

Many of us spend our time and daily energy mindlessly moving from one activity to another without truly taking the time to pause and reflect on the motivations and consequences of our actions. Make today the moment to ask yourself four things: What would you experience and/or achieve if you had more energy? To get more energy, what can you do differently? What behaviours are standing in your way? What can you do to make it possible anyway?

The first step is to hit the pause button, make time, and invest it in yourself. Why not now? Use this short self-assessment of your personal energy on the four important dimensions: physical energy, emotional energy, mental energy, and spiritual energy. (This energy audit was created by 'The energy project'.)

Is your tank full or empty?

The first dimension is physical energy. It's the simplest because it's the most tangible form of energy. It literally refers to the amount of fuel we have in our tank. In other words, is your tank full or empty?

The second dimension is emotional energy. How we feel is an important part of our work life. If we don't feel energetic, enthusiastic, confident, and engaged, our performance and leadership won't be optimal.

The third dimension is mental energy. In a world of increasing demands and constant interruptions, it has never been more important to take control of our own attention. The ability to stay focused on one hand and switch between detailed information and the big picture on the other.

And finally, the fourth dimension is spiritual energy. This refers to the purpose of our energy, doing what truly matters to us. It means living in alignment with our most cherished values. Are you living your purpose?

All these four dimensions are crucial for our performance, happiness, and long-term sustainability.

More physical energy for yourself and your team

Do you know the right answers to the following questions? If so, you can already take a few steps today towards more physical energy for yourself and your team.

• Do you start your day with coffee or water?
• Do you sleep at least 7 hours a day?
• Do you fill yourself up or just nourish yourself?
• Do you drink at least 2 liters of water per day?
• Do you take regular breaks throughout the day?
• Do you exercise at least twice a week?
• Do you move enough every day?

It's not difficult. It's about taking action. It's about granting yourself the permission, not as a nice-to-have, but because it truly makes THE difference. The difference between being a good leader and a mediocre one.

In my opinion, working on your own leadership is not about pursuing an expensive MBA at a similar educational institution. Good leadership is about constantly working on your own energy and that of your team.

Why wouldn't you prioritise it at the top of your daily agenda?

Your Energy is everything!