What gives you energy?
Last week, I took a pause—to literally tiptoe through the tulips.
I visited Roozengaarde in Washington’s Skagit Valley, where the tulips were in full bloom: fields of red, orange, yellow, purple, and pink stretching as far as the eye could see. I wandered through the rows, taking way too many photos, letting the vibrant colors, fresh air, and wide-open fields help me reset and reconnect with what matters most.
It reminded me of something simple but important: Being outside in nature energizes me.
For me, being outdoors—whether it’s hiking, kayaking, or even just digging around in the garden—always brings me back to center. It clears my head and recharges my body in a way no to-do list ever could.
In a world that constantly demands our attention, sometimes the best thing we can do for our work, our creativity, and our leadership is to pause.
To notice beauty. To breathe deeply. To walk slowly (perhaps, while listening to my podcast🎙️).
But this idea of “what gives you energy” doesn’t only apply to how we spend our free time. It applies to work, too.
In our careers, we often talk about managing time. But what if we spent just as much effort managing our energy?
What kind of work leaves you buzzing with ideas and excitement?
What tasks feel effortless—not because they’re easy, but because they’re in your zone of genius?
What do you find yourself naturally drawn toward when you're not following someone else’s roadmap?
When we notice what energizes us—not just what we’re good at, but what truly lights us up—we can start making more intentional choices about where we invest our time and talents.
And that starts by pausing long enough to notice.
So whether it’s stopping to smell the roses or reflecting on your latest project, I encourage you to take a breath this week and ask yourself:
🌷 What gives me energy?
✨ How can I create more space for that—in life and in work?
🌱 What might I need to let go of to make room for what fuels me?
I’d love to hear your answers. What energizes you? Drop a comment or photo below.
Until next time, keep dancing!
Listen to The Leadership Dance wherever you get your podcasts!