Have you ever noticed how some people leave you feeling drained, while others lift you up?

It’s not just in your head; energy is contagious.

The people we interact with, the environments we’re in, and even the emotions we absorb can significantly impact how we feel, think, and act.

Protecting your energy becomes increasingly important as we age. The energy you give and receive becomes a more precious resource, and it’s essential to set boundaries that preserve your well-being.

How can you do this?

It’s time to wave goodbye to these seven energy-draining behaviors. In doing so, you’ll conserve the mental, emotional, and physical reserves you need to live your best life!

1) Overcommitting yourself

Ever noticed how your calendar seems to be bursting at the seams?

Here lies the first energy-drainer.

It’s tempting to say ‘yes’ to every request, every favor, every social gathering. We often do this out of a sense of obligation, or simply because we don’t want to miss out on anything.

But let’s get real.

Constantly overcommitting yourself leads to burnout. It’s like running a car engine on empty. At some point, you’re going to sputter and stall.

Learning to say ‘no’ can be empowering. It allows you to prioritize your time and energy on what truly matters to you.

2) Neglecting self-care

Self-care? Who has time for that?

That was my mindset for the longest time.

Working long hours, juggling responsibilities at home and basically putting everyone else’s needs before my own.

One day, I woke up feeling completely drained.

It was a wake-up call. Neglecting self-care is a one-way ticket to exhaustion. 

So I decided to start allotting some time each day, even if it was just 15 minutes, for self-care activities.

Whether it’s reading a book, going for a walk, meditating or simply sitting quietly with a cup of tea, these moments of self-care have become my daily energy boosters.

3) Indulging in negative self-talk

Let me be straight, we’ve all been there.

Those moments when you look in the mirror and all you see are your flaws. Those nights when you lie awake replaying past mistakes.

Those times when you convince yourself that you’re not good enough, smart enough, or simply enough.

I used to be my own worst critic. But then, I realized something profound.

This negative self-talk? It’s draining. It’s like lugging around a heavy backpack filled with rocks. It weighs you down and saps your energy.

So, I made a choice. A choice to drop the metaphorical backpack.

Instead of beating myself up over past mistakes, I chose to learn from them. Instead of focusing on my flaws, I chose to celebrate my strengths.

And let me tell you, it’s liberating.

So, if you’re constantly belittling yourself, it’s time to change the narrative. Start speaking to yourself with kindness and compassion. You deserve it.

4) Sweating the small stuff

Traffic jams. Spilt coffee. Late deliveries. We all have those little things that annoy us, don’t we?

But here’s a revelation. Those small annoyances? They can suck up your energy like nothing else if you let them.

I used to get really wound up over the tiniest inconveniences. Then one day, I found myself completely exhausted over something as trivial as a broken pen. Can you believe it?

That was my lightbulb moment.

I realized I was wasting so much energy fretting over things that, in the grand scheme of life, were relatively insignificant.

So, I decided to let go. To stop sweating the small stuff and start focusing on what truly mattered.

And guess what? My energy levels soared.

So, next time you find yourself getting worked up over minor irritations, take a deep breath and let it go. It’s not worth your energy. Trust me on this one.

5) Holding onto grudges

Did you know that holding onto anger and resentment can actually impact your physical health?

It’s true.

Harboring grudges is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to get sick. You’re the one who ends up suffering.

I once held a grudge against a friend for years. It was draining. Every time I thought of them, my mood would plummet and my energy would dissipate.

One day, I decided enough was enough. I forgave them. Not necessarily because they deserved forgiveness, but because I deserved peace.

The result?

I felt lighter, happier, and more energetic.

So, if you’re holding onto past hurt, consider letting it go. Release the grudge and watch as your energy flows back in.

6) Comparing yourself to others

In this age of social media, it’s so easy to fall into the comparison trap, isn’t it?

You see your friends’ vacation photos, their new cars, their seemingly perfect lives and you can’t help but compare.

I’ve been there. Feeling like I was falling behind, as if I wasn’t doing enough or achieving enough.

But here’s what I’ve learned.

Everyone is on their own unique journey. You are not behind. You are not inadequate. You are exactly where you need to be.

So next time you catch yourself comparing your life to someone else’s highlight reel, remember that you are enough just as you are.

7) Ignoring your needs

We often tend to put others’ needs before our own. We think it’s noble, selfless. But at what cost?

Your needs are just as important as anyone else’s. Ignoring them is like running a marathon without taking a drink. You’ll eventually collapse from exhaustion.

Listen to your body.

• Rest when you need to
• Eat when you’re hungry
• Take that break if you’re feeling overwhelmed

Your energy is precious. Protect it by honoring your needs and treating yourself with the kindness and respect you deserve.

Embrace your energy

As you move through life, protecting your energy becomes a vital act of self-care, especially as you get older.

Saying goodbye to these seven behaviors will allow you to create the space you need to thrive.

By recognizing what drains you and setting clear boundaries, you’ll be better equipped to focus on what truly nourishes your body, mind, and soul.

Remember, your energy is your most valuable resource. When you prioritize its protection, you empower yourself to live with intention, pursue your passions, and build meaningful relationships that uplift you.