What's Your Energy Source?

Ever since I began seeing change and transformation through the lens of the caterpillar to cocoon to butterfly developmental process, I have learned so much about butterflies. I am constantly struck by how many life lessons they offer.

Recently I read a quote from author and speaker Laurie Beth Jones: “… I was amazed to learn that butterflies have to spread their wings in the morning sunshine because the scales on their wings are actually solar cells. Without that source of energy, they cannot fly.”

What’s your source of energy? Have you thought about it before? There are different ways to think about that question. One is to reflect on what you see as your ultimate source of power and energy, whether that be God, the Universe or some other Higher Power. Whatever that source is, how do you tap into it? What happens when you don’t have that connection?

Stay plugged in
My energy source is God. And for me that means a relationship. If we’re not connected, I’m the one who has disconnected. It takes time and intention on my part to keep that relationship alive—for me to stay plugged in. You may have a different source that powers and empowers your life. It’s important that you know what it takes to build and sustain your energy so you can soar like the beautiful butterfly you were created to be!

Another way of looking at your energy source is to think about your personality type. Are you an introvert or an extrovert on the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator assessment profiles? It’s not about whether you like being with people. It’s about your energy source. Do you go inside yourself and find energy in solitude (introvert)? Or do you get energized through social interaction and the outer world (extrovert)? Often it’s some type of balance between the two. It’s helpful to know where on the continuum you fall so that you can stay energized and not get totally depleted.

Think about your energy source. Work with it. Stay plugged in. See how joyful and powerful you feel when you’re energized. Are you ready to spread your wings and soar?