This pandemic has dragged on for what seems like years. It looks as if there is a light at the end of the tunnel; we just hope it’s not a train barreling our way.
During challenging times like the one we’re in now, it’s important to think about how to recharge ourselves. I like to think of my energy like punch in a punchbowl. My family, friends, and others can put their straws in my punchbowl and drink as much punch as they would like. Even people I don’t know are allowed to have some punch. My job is simply to replenish the punchbowl; I don’t concern myself too much with who deserves to be at the punchbowl and who doesn’t.
Like the punchbowl, we need to replenish our energy so that we’re never “on empty.” Your strategy should be to create an infinite supply of “punch.”
Here are three strategies for keeping your punchbowl full:
What should I stop doing that might be draining my punchbowl?
Do you need to go on a media diet? Are you overcommitting and overbooking yourself? Do you have unhealthy habits? These are punchbowl drainers, so watch what you’re consuming and how you’re spending your time so you can stop the leak in the punchbowl.
What should I continue doing that keeps my punchbowl full?
People I have interviewed for my podcast all have one thing in common: they have routines and they stick to them no matter what. They are disciplined, and you should be too. So if you have a routine that works for you and it keeps your punchbowl full, by all means, stick with it. It’s not a selfish act to keep doing what works for you to keep your energy at an optimal level.
What should I start doing that will replenish my punchbowl?
If you notice that your punchbowl has a constant drain or never seems to increase, that means you might need to start doing something to replenish your supply. Whether it’s eating healthy food, exercising, connecting with uplifting people, consuming educational information, or starting a new routine, find something that will help you replenish your punchbowl.
When you ask these three questions and act on them, you’ll keep your punchbowl full. In other words, you’ll have the energy to deal with the challenges that come your way.
This post is based on a podcast episode by Greg Bell.
Listen below for the full episode: