The Power of Positively Aligned Energetic Leadership

In an economy where output is often the most monitored metric, the most effective leaders are now asking:

How does it feel — and how do I want to lead from that place?

Because business strategy is where you traditionally concentrate your efforts. But your energy - the tone you set, the presence you bring, the capacity you manage - that is what people feel. And that is what determines whether your vision becomes something others want to follow... or just a plan on paper.  (It’s also an important factor in retention rates.)  And how YOU feel and communicate this energy directly impacts how others feel and perform.

Our project plans cover the what and the how. But rarely do we pause to ask:

·      How do I show up in this?

·      Is this strategy aligned with how I (want) to feel?

·      Do I have the capacity to lead this in a way that reflects my values?

You can have the most airtight strategy, but if your energy is fractured—burnt out, reactive, disconnected - it leaks into everything.

There’s a saying “the leader brings the weather”.  And this applies across every arena in our lives...  My best friend often reminds me that as parents we also set the barometer as leaders in our household!

Leaders who manage their energy with intention make smarter decisions, build more resilient teams, and create cultures people want to be part of.

Protecting your energy isn’t about scented candles and morning yoga (though these can also be effective). It’s about creating the conditions in which you - and your people - can thrive.

When you manage your energy well, your clarity sharpens. You become more discerning. And you start leading from a place of grounded confidence, not constant reactivity.

When You’re Just Not Feeling It:

Now let’s get real… not every project or task gives us the feels.  There are some tasks I really wish AI would hurry up and take off my plate! 

So how do you show up in a way that inspires others with positively aligned energetic leadership, and still be authentic even when you aren’t vibing it? 

1.        Create Space – It starts with you as an individual.  When we rush, we lack the capacity to give full intention and our best selves to the task at hand.  There are many ways you can create space for yourself – getting enough sleep and nourishing yourself mindfully; regular exercise; designing your calendar with margins either side of your meetings - and choosing presence over perfection.  Calm presence speaks more strongly than all the activity your hustle could ever create.

2.        Determine Your Focus – What parts of the project or plan are aligned with your core values?  Which parts are you grateful to have input into?  Deliberately choose your thoughts.  That which we focus on is amplified.  And if you want to change your energy rapidly, change your focus.

3.       Act With Intent – This goes back to the concept of Embodiment.  The concept of Embodiment teaches that as we enact physically what we desire, it influences our reality.  Actions influence Energy.  If you aren’t feeling positive about a project – arrive at the meeting early, fully prepared, consciously stand taller as you enter the room (or sit up straighter as you start the Zoom).  Embody eagerness, confidence, positivity and your own energy will soon start to shift.

4.        Choose Your Words – There’s a proverb that says Life & Death are in the Power of the Tongue (Prov. 18:21).  Ensure that your words mirror what you are choosing to consciously focus on and embody.  So that when you walk into the office and someone asks how you are, you can respond “Fantastic!”.  Why?  (And here, I am not advocating inauthenticity).  Rather it’s because you are Fantastic!  You’ve found the “great” in your day - and your focus remains firmly on it.  Maybe you had a cold drip coffee and training session before work and you believe in the mission of your workplace. You know you have the capacity to deliver meaningful outcomes.  Your team don’t need to know that you just heard about the loss of a contract that will place even more pressure on the deliverables from this project :P. Let your words reflect your focus.

5.        Have A Voice – This is an oft-overlooked component of being able to bring positive energy to your team.  Where our feelings are not given voice, they often influence our tone, actions and outcomes on a deeper level. However, there is a reason this comes in last on my list.  Your team don’t need to hear every download.  Whilst vulnerability is important for connection, when having a voice make sure you choose your audience, time and place with care.  A good leader knows how to be circumspect, to ensure their words are delivered where and when they are most likely to have positive impact.  Talk through any negative feelings and experiences with your own mentor/coach (or manager if you have one).  But remember you have the tools to change how you feel and raise your energy!

Setting the Tone for Your Team

As a leader, your energy is contagious. You don’t have to be the loudest voice or the biggest extrovert. But you do set the emotional tone.

If you’re exhausted, anxious, or constantly "on," your team mirrors that.

If you’re calm, composed, and clear - they rise to meet that, too.

Energy is a signal to your team:

“This is how we work here. This is how we take care of our vision – and ourselves.”

Energy is what drives execution. And when it’s managed with care, you don’t just do more - you become more.

More impactful. More sustainable.

And isn’t that what real leadership is about?