There are many ways to experience loss of personal energy. It can happen through, poor diet, lack of exercise, too little sleep, poor organizational skills, and surprisingly enough…by letting other people steal it from you. This is not a malicious attack nor is it a conscious act but simply the difference in how our bodies are wired.
There are two main personality types; introverts and extroverts. The non technical explanation for introvert is one who is shy and quiet. They are not usually the life of the party and would rather be alone than in a group. Introverts lead a more private life, they keep their personal thoughts to themselves, are usually non aggressive, and are compassionate. Introverts burn energy very quickly. Because they draw their energy from within, they must take periodic breaks from what they determine to be confusion. They retreat to quiet places where they surround themselves with an inner world of order, thoughts, and emotions. The introvert personality experiences energy drain very easily.
Extroverts are very sociable people. They make friends easily, are aggressive, and are always aware of what is going on around them. They usually don't mind crowds, are active, assertive, outgoing, enthusiastic, talkative and impulsive. Their ability to talk non stop, speak loudly, and always be on the move takes an enormous amount of positive energy that burns quickly and is replaced by gathering energy from their surroundings. This means that if you happen to be within close proximity you could be an unsuspecting donor. This doesn't mean extroverts are bad people and in all likelihood they are kind, thoughtful, and friendly.
Introverts most likely know or have met someone who just seems to tire them out by being near them. Most people are unaware of what is going on, some may become tired or nervous without knowing why, while others only know that they feel uncomfortable or uneasy.
It is important to know how to contain your energy and keep vampires from sucking away your strength.
- Be aware of energy vampires starting with the people in your life. Take a look at your family members, friends, and co-workers. Does anyone seem to drag you down, tire you out, or put you on edge for no apparent reason?
- Spend limited time around known energy vampires and try to keep space between you if possible. This doesn't mean to sit at opposite sides of the room but find a polite compromise. If you are able, discuss with them why you would like to keep a certain distance apart.
- Meditate to center yourself and bolster your inner energies.
- If you find an acquaintance or co-worker physically draining, keep your distance whenever possible and have as little close contact as possible
Of course there are many other energy drains that have nothing to do with personality differences and it is a good idea to remedy any problems that you come in constant contact with. Limiting energy sapping situations will make your life much easier and more comfortable.
Negative relationships. When negativity builds causing an unnecessary and constant strain between friends your energy is being depleted. You may have to consider spending less time together.
Control issues. Sometimes we try to control everything that goes on around us. Some people feel a strong need to fix every problem that comes up but it is impossible to create a perfect world. Learn to let go. Remind yourself that you are only human and not Superhuman.
Unclutter the clutter. When you are surrounded with clutter and confusion your thoughts mirror your surroundings. You will spend more time trying to think clearly and work efficiently which only causes more wasted energy.
Unclean surroundings. It can be your house, yard, car, work place or anywhere else you spend a lot of time. Unclean conditions drain energy in much the same way as clutter. Cleaning up the disarray and dirt helps clean your mind and a clear and competent mind uses less energy.
Unfinished business. Whether it is a list of unfinished errands or letters that need to be written you need to deal with them. As long as they are left unfinished they continue to distract you. Get them done and take back the energy you spent stressing over them.
Energy sapping stress is often overlooked. Most people don't realize when it's happening to them because sapping and rebuilding of energy has gone on their entire life without their knowledge. They are usually unaware of the process or blame some other problem for it. If they are suddenly tired they might think they slept poorly or if they feel a little weak they might think it's from lack of food. While these reasons happen easily and are true enough symptoms, sometimes it's the energy vampire standing behind you at the check out counter.
