As a woman in my 50s, on the other side of menopause, I realize how precious and transformative energy is in every aspect of life. I’ve chosen “energy” as one of my focus words this year. It’s not just about physical vitality or financial abundance—it’s about cultivating a life that feels charged, purposeful, and full of potential.
Recently, I reviewed Rich as F*ck: More Money Than I Know What to Do With* by Amanda Frances. The book dives deep into our emotional and psychological relationships with money, teaching us how to align our financial habits with our goals and values. The insights I gained were eye-opening, but they also made me realize something bigger: energy isn’t just about money; it’s about how we approach life.
I also just finished reading Ryan Serhant’s Big Money Energy, and I’ll be sharing a full review soon. His concept of confidence and presence radiating as energy in all interactions resonates deeply. While financial success is a part of the equation, the idea of bringing high, magnetic energy to every situation stands out most to me.
But my word “energy” goes beyond finances and professional success. For me, it’s about living the life I want—how I fuel it, spend it, and preserve it. Here’s how I’m approaching energy this year:
Fueling Energy Through Healthy Eating
As a pescatarian following a whole-food, high-protein diet, I’ve seen firsthand how my food directly impacts my energy levels. When I eat more real food, I notice a dramatic increase in energy. When I eat more processed food, the afternoon sleepiness creeps in. This year, I’m focusing even more on nourishing meals that sustain me through busy days. It’s not just about weight loss; it’s about fueling my body to support the life I want to live. Creating meals and prioritizing protein-packed dishes keep me feeling energized and focused.
Exercising to Create energy
Exercise isn’t just about burning calories for me; it’s about creating energy. (However, let me be clear, I need to burn some calories and lose some weight.) Walking and running are staples in my daily routine, giving me time to think, reflect, and reset. Strength training three times a week has become a cornerstone for building endurance and resilience, not to mention helping me feel strong and capable. And when the weather allows, paddleboarding gives me peace and connection to nature, which is its own kind of energy boost.
Practicing yoga is another key part of my routine; the connection I feel during my practice is deeply grounding and rejuvenating. This year, I’m dedicating myself to creating the time and space for my yoga practice to flourish.
Spending Time on What Energizes Me
I’m also being intentional about where and with whom I spend my time. Activities like working on my creative projects, such as my websites Every Day Curations and The Art Fair Gallery, light me up and bring a sense of accomplishment as they grow. These projects are not just work; they’re passion-fueled projects that give me as much energy as I give them.
Traveling always gives me energy. Traveling back to Colorado to continue my pursuit of learning to ski is high on my list of things that provide me with energy. And as much as I love the quiet of my cottage, traveling to big cities gives me energy. I’m going to need to spend some time this year in NYC and/or Chicago.
On the flip side, I’m learning to set boundaries with activities or commitments that feel draining—things that take more from me than they give. This process of setting boundaries is empowering, as it allows me to take control of my energy and focus on what truly matters.
Managing What Drains Energy
Life inevitably includes tasks and situations that can sap our energy. I know there is no way to remove all energy drains, but working to minimize them is key. This means finding strategies to reframe how I approach these situations. Whether it’s automating tedious tasks, allowing myself to spend money to have someone else go to the grocery store, decluttering my physical and digital spaces, or shifting my mindset. I’m determined to protect my energy this year.
The Bigger Picture
Ultimately, this year’s focus is on creating a flow of energy in all areas of my life that fuels joy, creativity, and strength. Energy is not just a personal resource; it’s the foundation of how we show up for ourselves and others. By focusing on energy, I remind myself that I can create the life I want, one small choice at a time, and also positively influence the lives of those around me.
As I continue focusing on energy, I have two other focus words I will share later with you. In the meantime, I’d love to hear how you approach energy. What fuels you? What drains you? Let’s start a conversation about creating energy that empowers us all.