I was out walking with friends last Sunday. The sun was shining and it felt like there was a buzz in the air. People were picnicking and boaties were lining up, waiting for their turn to launch.
As we rounded the harbour, we saw the stream of boats making their way out past the 5 knot area, into the wider expanse of the harbour and out to the bar.
Mostly, people were following the rules and taking their time. But, there was one boaty who decided to do differently. Swerving around a boat in front of them, they powered past, leaving behind a turbulent wake. The result? There were some unsavoury shouts from other boaties, a paddle-boarder was violently ejected from their board, and a mother rushed to lift her child from the resulting wave before they were swamped. One person’s decision had left a ripple effect (literally) on those around them.
In work and life, we all have an energetic ripple. It is the energy with which we enter a room, answer the phone, greet each other. Every action and interaction, has a subsequent reaction or ripple.
When we are working alongside others, the consequence of the energy we bring into a space can raise or lower the vibration. It can help or hinder creativity, productivity, and relationships.
Being able to consciously choose our energy (emotional regulation) begins with awareness of our emotional state. Pausing and asking ourselves, How am I feeling? Where’s my mindspace? Doing a body scan to check for any areas of tension or upset. Then choosing your state. This may involve using strategies such as taking a breath to centre yourself and recalibrate, maybe considering something you are grateful for, connecting-in with your why, the deeper purpose of your mahi, or even slowing down and grabbing a coffee or taking a mini break. Give yourself time and space to refocus your emotional state and energy. Then, consciously engage.
I love the message below that greets people before they enter a healthcare facility. It reminds people to choose their energy ahead of entering. It also alerts them to the fact that their energy has an effect on others.
So, as you move forward into this coming week, what energy will surround you? How also, will you support others to raise their energy?
What ripple effect will you have?
Go well
MA 🙂
