Fight friends and fans, it’s time for a knockout article.
Today, we’re addressing the problem of time management.
There’s a ton of literature with advice ranging from to-do lists to productivity apps that promise better, more efficient time management.
I’m here to disagree.
Here’s why.
Overly optimizing time when you only have 24 hours a day doesn’t sound like a good idea.
I’ve personally been over-stressed and over-taxed from having to document every single reminder and plan out my day to the T.
Only for things to unravel over the course of the week due to unexpected events.
Instead, I believe energy management is by far the better solution.
In their book, “The Power of Full Engagement: Managing Energy, Not Time, Is the Key to High Performance and Personal Renewal“, authors Jim Loehr and Tony Schwartz outline the four different energy systems and why it’s not as efficient to fill out your calendars with tasks and appointments.
Just like me, they argue that managing your energy allows you to become fully engaged. That is the real key to unlocking your potential, both professionally and personally.
I’ll explain and share some of my own experiences in managing the 4 key energies – physical, emotional, mental and spiritual – to become a more productive, efficient, and all-around better human being.
Physical energy
This is your body’s capacity to do work. As an athlete, I’m acutely aware of the importance of staying in shape, eating right, and getting enough rest. But as I transitioned into my post-fighting career, I realized that taking care of my physical energy extends beyond just working out. It’s also about having the stamina to handle long days in the office, engaging with my podcast guests, and traveling for ONE Championship events.
Emotional Energy
Emotions play a massive role in our lives, and managing them is crucial for success. As a fighter, I had to learn how to control my emotions in the heat of battle, so I didn’t make reckless decisions. Now, in the business world and as a podcast host, I focus on maintaining a positive and optimistic attitude, which helps me make better decisions and connect more deeply with others.
Mental Energy
This encompasses your ability to focus, solve problems, and think creatively. Back in my fighting days, I’d spend hours studying my opponents and strategizing ways to exploit their weaknesses. In my current roles, I use mental energy to develop innovative ideas for my podcast, stay organized, and manage my team at ONE Championship.
Spiritual Energy
I’m not necessarily talking about religion here although it can apply as well. Spiritual energy is more about connecting to a sense of purpose or meaning in life. For me, my fighting career was driven by a passion for the sport and a desire to be the best. Today, I find fulfillment in mentoring young fighters, entertaining and educating my podcast listeners, and contributing to the growth of ONE Championship.
So, how can you manage your energy to become more productive and efficient in work and life? Here are a few tips that have worked wonders for me:
- Prioritize self-care – Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep are all essential for maintaining your physical energy. Don’t skimp on these, no matter how busy you are.
- Stay positive – Embrace an optimistic mindset and surround yourself with positive influences. This will help you navigate challenging situations with ease and make better decisions.
- Take breaks – Instead of pushing yourself to the point of burnout, take regular breaks throughout the day to recharge your mental and emotional energy. You’ll be surprised how much more productive you are when you give yourself time to rest.
- Connect with your purpose – Find something that gives your life meaning and work towards it. This will not only fuel your spiritual energy but also provide motivation and resilience when faced with obstacles.
- Set boundaries – Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life to prevent energy depletion. This might mean setting specific hours for work, not checking email during family time, or disconnecting from social media during your leisure time.
- Balance your energy – Recognize that each type of energy is interconnected and essential for optimal performance. Allocate time and effort to nurturing each energy source, and avoid neglecting one at the expense of another.
- Practice mindfulness – Cultivate mindfulness through meditation, yoga, or other practices to help manage your mental and emotional energy. Mindfulness can improve focus, reduce stress, and promote a healthier perspective on life’s challenges.
- Seek support – Don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed. Whether it’s from friends, family, or professionals, having a support network can help you manage your energy more effectively.
By understanding the four types of energy and implementing strategies to optimize them, you can unlock your full potential and live a more fulfilling, balanced life.
Until then, keep fighting the good fight my friends!