Have you 
ever noticed that different leaders can experience the same situation, at the same time, and react or respond in completely different ways? Ever wonder why? It all has to do with our core energy. Bruce D Schneider, Founder of the Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching (iPEC), defines core energy as “the energy that is at the core of thoughts, emotions, and actions that relate to how people see themselves, those around them, and the world itself.”
Recognizing the impact of different levels of energy allows us to make conscious choices in the moment that support or influence our performance in every area of our lives. Let’s use a scenario, which most of us have probably experienced at some point in our lives, and see how energy plays out and impacts performance.
Scenario
You are walking down the corridor at work, on your way to a meeting, and you see your boss coming your way. As he/she approaches, you smile and cheerfully say “good morning”. Your boss doesn’t acknowledge you and continues walking right past you.
What’s the first thing that runs through your mind? As you read the potential reactions/responses at each level, see which perspective sounds most like you.
Perspectives
Level 1: “My boss never pays any attention to me. I can’t do anything right. I don’t think I’m ever going to get ahead. Maybe I should just look for another job.”
Level 2: “ARE YOU KIDDING ME??!! I go out of my way to say “good morning” and she completely ignores me!”
Level 3: “That’s strange that he didn’t say “hello”. Maybe he didn’t hear me.”
Level 4: “Wow, that’s so unlike her. I hope she’s okay. I’ll check in with her after my meeting and see what’s going on and if there’s any way I can help.”
Level 5: “He must be totally focused on that new deal we’re going after. I’ll swing by later and offer some of my ideas on how we can collaborate with this potential partner. I know we can make this a huge win for both of our firms!”
So, which level did you resonate with the most? Can you feel that what happens next will be completely different given the perspective this leader takes?
Shifting Your Energy
Our level of energy can bounce around all day long as we experience a variety of situations. At what level does your reaction tend to fall? In what type of circumstances do you experience Level 1, 2, 3 energy, etc? How empowering would it be to know that you can learn to recognize different levels of energy in yourself and others and choose the response that will support you most effectively in any given situation?
When your energy is working for you and you can tap more frequently into higher levels of energy, you can expect to experience…
- Inner certainty
- A sense of calm amidst change and chaos
- Ease in making and committing to choices
- A broader perspective
- Being more present in the moment
- Taking the initiative and fully engaging in every aspect of your life.
Working together, you’ll discover the nature of the energy of performance and be able to take steps to proactively create consistent experiences and make quick adjustments in the moment if things go awry.
If you’re intrigued and would like to discuss how this process can help you create your personal leadership formula for success, please contact Sherry for a complimentary consultation.
About the Author: Sherry Dutra is a Talent Development and Career Coach and Facilitator who helps you create consistent, optimal performance using all your capacity and potential in both your work and life. If you would like to uncover and address hidden challenges that may be sabotaging your success, leverage your strengths, and accelerate your progress toward the results you desire, contact Sherry for a complimentary consultation.
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