Do your energy levels need a top up? Or maybe a complete overhaul!

Lately, I’ve been reading Energize by Simon Alexander Ong – a timely book in a world that can often feel draining. With global news bringing wave after wave of concerns, it’s vital that we take charge of our energy, not just our calendars. One of Ong’s key messages is simple but powerful: don’t manage your time—manage your energy.

We all have natural peaks and dips throughout the day, so why not schedule tasks accordingly? Creative work when we’re at our most energised; admin or meetings when energy is lower. 

I’ve been putting this into practice myself—getting up early to write my book (yussss, it’s continuing to draaaag on 😳🤣) while my mind is clear. But by early evening, I’m fading fast. So I don’t schedule demanding tasks at that time, favouring something more relaxing instead.

Small adjustments like this can make a big difference to our output—and more importantly, to our wellbeing. Do you know when your most and least energetic times of day are? And do you schedule accordingly?

You might find this article helpful:

https://www.fastcompany.com/91123763/dont-focus-on-time-management-try-energy-management-instead

WHAT’S BEEN HAPPENING BEHIND THE SCENES?

After months of planning and collaboration with the company VideoNarrative, I’m releasing a new demo reel about my speaking work—and I’m genuinely pleased to share it with you. 

Creative projects can be stressful, especially when you’re relying on others to bring your vision to life. In this case, the first version of the video looked beautiful and cinematic, but it didn’t capture the tone or message I was aiming for.

At first, I held back from giving the creative team direct feedback—partly because I didn’t want to hurt feelings. But ultimately, using clear communication was key. I learned (again!) that if something doesn’t sit right, it’s better to speak up early, rather than wait and hope it works itself out.

Here’s a quick framework for delivering constructive feedback when something isn’t quite right:

REAL Framework for Creative Feedback

• R – Recognise the effort: Start by acknowledging the work and intention behind it.
• E – Explain your perspective: Share what’s not working for you, honestly but kindly.
• A – Align with the goal: Reaffirm the shared vision or purpose behind the project.
• L – Lead with clarity: Be specific about what needs to change and why.

Even as a communication professional, I sometimes need to remind myself to speak up with clarity and honesty. It’s a lifelong lesson, especially when you were taught as a child not to make waves, or that your opinion isn’t valuable.

Does that resonate with you?

Many years ago, a friend offered to build me a personal branding website. When I saw it, there were lots of typos and a number of other things I didn’t like. Although I tried to tell my friend gently, she took great offence and…well… suffice it to say that the friendship didn’t survive. 🥹

In hindsight, I wish I’d had the REAL framework (or similar) to use with her at that time. It’s a delicate balance – expressing how we truly feel all the while being kind, encouraging and supportive. Not easy!

Anyway, here’s the link to my speaking video (just 4 mins long 😅). Please pass it along to colleagues or friends who book speakers. And let me know what you think! (Feel free to use the REAL framework!)

INSPIRE INCLUSION: REST AS RESISTANCE

This didn’t come directly from Ong’s book, but it fits beautifully with the overall theme: the idea that rest is not a luxury, but a form of resistance and inclusion. I recently read Rest is Resistance by Tricia Hersey, and while not everything in it resonated, one idea stood out – that rest is a human right, especially for those whose bodies and identities have historically been undervalued in systems of work.

When we talk about inclusion, we must also talk about equitable energy. Some people are expected to work harder just to be seen or heard. Some rarely feel safe enough to relax in their work environments. If we’re serious about creating inclusive cultures, we need to normalise rest—not just for ourselves, but across our teams.

Years ago, when I worked as a management consultant, my manager would often drop last-minute tasks on my colleague Katherine and me, just as we were heading home. Our evening plans were frequently derailed and though we grumbled about it, we felt powerless to change the situation.

Later, after a (tiny) promotion, I found myself doing the same to Katherine, who was now my direct report. She was rightly upset—and I still feel guilty to this day. The culture made that behaviour seem normal, even acceptable.

The articles I’ve shared below discuss: 1 – The importance of rhythmic rest, including 5 different rhythms to help you find balance in your professional lives and 2 – How rest correlates with workplace benefits such as an ‘innovation mindset’ and improved team performance. Please share them with anyone who needs convincing about the power of rest.

https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbescoachescouncil/2024/08/12/strategies-for-preventing-work-burnout-finding-your-rhythm-of-work-and-rest

https://blog.neurozone.com/work-rest-rhythm-0

COMMUNICATION CORNER: SAYING NO WITH GRACE

A big takeaway from Energize is that protecting your energy often means saying no—a skill many of us find uncomfortable. But as Ong points out, saying no doesn’t have to be harsh or negative. It can be warm, respectful, and full of praise.

Here’s a simple 4-step framework you might find helpful:

WARM Framework for Saying No

• W – Welcome the Request Acknowledge the invitation or opportunity positively: “Thank you so much for thinking of me…”
• A – Appreciate the Intent Show genuine appreciation for the effort behind the ask: “It’s such a meaningful project…”
• R – Reframe with Honesty Gently share your boundaries: “Right now, I wouldn’t be able to give it the attention it deserves.”
• M – Maintain Connection Keep the door open: “Let’s definitely stay in touch for future opportunities.”

This kind of communication protects your energy while maintaining relationships—and often earns more respect than an overstretched yes.

That’s it for now! I hope something here energised or encouraged you. As always, I’d love to hear from you so reach out, and keep it REAL 🙂

Take care and be kind to your energy,

Shola

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Hi, I’m Shola and I help you create a people-first culture. My work sits at the intersection of Inclusion, Communication & Emotional Intelligence.

My keynote talks and workshops help your leaders and employees create high-performing work environments where people feel a sense of belonging and psychological safety. Sessions are high energy, interactive, and every participant walks away with at least one practical framework for connecting and collaborating more effectively.

Sound good to you? Please reach out and let’s discuss your next event! 🙂🎤✨