Dear Leaders,
For years, I’ve joked with my sisters that I live by a “minimum energy standard.” Translation: if it’s after 9:00 PM, I’m either asleep or deep into my wind-down routine. I guard my bedtime closely and often miss out on late-night conversations or shows—but I’ve learned that managing my energy is one of the most important parts of showing up as my best self each day. On rare occasions, I’ll stretch past 9:30 PM, but it’s never my norm. Leadership requires energy, and I’ve discovered that being intentional about how I protect and replenish mine makes all the difference.
So how can leaders manage their energy more effectively?
- Know your energy givers and drainers. Pay attention to which tasks, people, or environments refuel you—and which deplete you. Before you step into situations that demand a lot of energy, plan to walk in with a full tank. Build in time afterward to recharge.
- Create a routine that sustains you. My rhythm includes a 9:30 PM bedtime and a 5:30 AM wake-up. This gives me time to center myself, fit in a workout if I choose (always an energy booster), and ease into the day without rushing. Routines create consistency—and consistency fuels energy.
- Don’t overlook nutrition. Many leaders lean on coffee to jump-start the day. For years, I did too—until I stopped abruptly last April. Now, I start with sparkling water, and I’ve noticed it energizes me without the mid-afternoon crash. Small changes can shift your energy in big ways.
The energy we bring to our work is contagious. Whether it’s high or low, positive or negative, it shapes the climate around us. As leaders, we owe it to those we serve to bring our best energy—sometimes even at the cost of missing a late-night football game or show. Presence tomorrow matters more than entertainment today.
This week, pay attention to your energy. Identify what replenishes you, name what depletes you, and adjust with intention. Self-awareness in this area doesn’t just make us better leaders—it makes us better people. And as always, remember to lead with courage, heart, soul, and from the inside out.
Yours in Leadership,
Dr. Latoya Dixon
Leadership With Latoya 