Choose Your Energy
“If you are disturbed by anything external, the pain is not due to the thing itself but to your estimate of it — and this you have the power to revoke at any moment.” — Marcus Aurelius
THE OBSTACLE
We bring energy into all that we say and do. Into our thoughts. Into our actions. Into every conversation, every choice, every conversation and moment of conflict. Most of the time, we don’t realize how much of our day is powered by fear and negativity — fear of failure, fear of judgment, fear of conflict, fear of not getting it right, fear of not being in control, fear of it not being perfect, fear of the unknown... It slows everything down, it drains us and others. It makes things feel heavy and exhausting. We want to control, perfect, move on, avoid, worry, please, to be right… The resistance shows up, and we obey. The obstacle is remembering that energy is a choice… even when it does not feel like one.
THE GIFT AND OPPORTUNITY
Slow down long enough to notice the energy we’re bringing into the situation — into our thoughts, words, and actions. We can flip the switch. We can shift frustration into curiosity, resistance into exploration, conflict into understanding, obligation into creativity. The gift is knowing a different experience is always available and that it is our choice. We have to be here and we have to do this, so why not choose the better option? The opportunity is practicing this shift of being the one in control.
THE PRACTICE OF SELF-MASTERY
Check your thoughts and name the energy.
Before acting, notice what you’re carrying into the moment.
Before speaking, ask what’s needed now?
Wherever you are, choose something to enjoy or something interesting to notice (there always is).
When negativity shows up, flip the switch — empathy, curiosity, exploration, creativity, or simple action.
