Protecting Your Energy: A Practical Guide for Leaders, Carers, and Advocates

sadieravening
Nov 29
2 min read

Updated: Dec 1

In today’s fast-paced world, protecting your energy is essential—not just for your own wellbeing, but for those you lead and care for. This blog explores practical strategies and rituals that help sustain your energy, so you can continue to support others with clarity and compassion.

Understanding Burnout and Stress

Burnout doesn’t happen overnight. It creeps in slowly, often disguised as emotional exhaustion, difficulty concentrating, irritability, or a loss of joy in activities you once loved. Recognizing these early signs is a powerful first step toward change. Remember, noticing these signs is not a weakness—it’s a sign of wisdom and self-awareness.

Strategies to Protect Your Energy

Boundaries in Leadership

Saying no with dignity is one of the most powerful ways to protect your energy. Boundaries aren’t walls; they’re invitations to healthier, more respectful relationships. Setting clear limits helps you maintain focus and prevents burnout.

Micro-Rituals

Small, symbolic acts can reset your energy throughout the day. Whether it’s a two-minute breathing pause, closing your notebook at the end of the day, or lighting a candle to mark a transition, these micro-rituals create moments of calm and clarity.

Collective Care

Wellbeing isn’t just about self-care—it’s about shared care. When we normalize rest and boundaries within our communities and teams, we give others permission to do the same. This collective approach strengthens everyone’s resilience.

Practical Tools and Exercises

Try conducting an Energy Audit: list three things that drain your energy and three things that restore it. Reflect on these regularly to stay attuned to your needs.

Sharing strategies with peers can spark new ideas. Simple actions like taking a walk, listening to a favorite playlist, or delegating tasks can make a big difference.

Reframing Criticism and Advocacy

Defensive cultures and criticism can be draining, but reframing these moments as opportunities can protect your energy. Instead of absorbing negativity, ask yourself: "What’s the opportunity here?" Use these moments to educate, clarify your values, and invite constructive dialogue. This shift from defensiveness to advocacy not only preserves your energy but also strengthens your leadership.

Closing Thoughts

Protecting your energy is not selfish—it’s the foundation of sustainable care and leadership. By noticing early signs of stress, setting boundaries, practicing micro-rituals, and reframing challenges, you build resilience for yourself and those you support.

Commit to one wellbeing ritual this week. Whether it’s a breathing exercise, a walk, or a moment of quiet reflection, make it a priority. Together, we can normalize wellbeing as a collective practice, creating healthier, more compassionate communities.

Thank you for reading. If you found this guide helpful, consider sharing it with others who might benefit from protecting their energy too.# Protecting Your Energy: A Practical Guide for Leaders, Carers, and Advocates. I have also attached a worksheet to work through to help reinforce and support your learning.