Leading with Energy: A New Leadership Paradigm

By Dr. Cornelia Kawann

Energetic Leadership – What’s That?

I am quite sure, you know those moments when life throws you a curveball, and you’re left wondering, “How on earth am I going to handle this?” 

I had such a moment five years ago, when every morning felt like a struggle. The alarm blared, and I dragged myself out of bed, feeling more exhausted than when I’d hit the sheets the night before. My days were a blur of obligations – corporate meetings, parenting duties and organizing our family activities, household chores, visiting family and friends – all while trying to maintain some semblance of balance in my life.

And then came this very special moment in my life, when I woke up on a Saturday morning and knew: I don’t want to continue like this. I knew I had to change something in my life. I just didn’t know what and how. After some research I found the solution: I discovered, that as with everybody, my time is limited to 24 hours, whereas my energy isn’t! This changed everything in my life!

I realized that I needed to increase my personal energy in order to increase my productivity, my efficiency and the way how I lead myself and others. Hence, I experimented with my energy and developed Energy Tools that gave me all the energy I needed; not only at work but also in my private life. I experienced how much easier many things get, when you do them in a different and smart way with the right energy. 

The concept of Energetic Leadership was born!

So what does this mean? Imagine being that you are a person radiating energy who not only faces challenges head-on but inspires everyone around you to do the same. That’s what being an Energetic Leader is all about – overcoming obstacles with a spark in your eye, guiding others with your passion, and leading with purpose in every step you take.

Because today, you need different approaches to make a difference!

Why Is Energetic Leadership Important Now?

There has been a bit of a crisis lately. Pandemics, war, energy shortages, supply bottlenecks, rising prices, higher interest rates and rising inflation are still dominating the agenda. In these fast changing and unpredictable times, traditional leadership models may fall short and not work anymore the way they worked before.

In the era of artificial intelligence, new technologies, and evolving work environments personal values and security have once again become an important issue. Hence the question is: How can leadership define and incorporate the principle of continuous change, flexibility and adaptation? What does it take to offer people both security and a sense of purpose at work in times of crisis? 

It is an essential factor, how a leader deals with crises and change. Therefore, the changes and challenges we face—whether in business or our personal lives—require a fresh perspective.

Why Leading With Energy Matters

In times of uncertainty and more and more artificial intelligence it becomes important that people FEEL who you are and what you stand for. People want to FEEL you and your ENERGY. Hence, the simple solution is: Lead with your Energy!

But what does this mean to lead with your energy? It is actually quite simple. Let me introduce the four pillars of Energetic Leadership to you: 

First Pillar: Radiate energy and optimism and cultivate a positive and empowering atmosphere. Use your passion to drive meaningful change and create a vibrant, thriving environment. By creating a sense of excitement and possibility you motivate people around you to strive for excellence.

Second Pillar: Focus on collaboration and teamwork by recognizing the value of diversity and inclusivity. Encourage open communication and foster an environment where every voice is heard, respected, and valued. 

Third Pillar: Foster a culture of continuous learning, personal growth, and empower others to contribute their unique talents and perspectives towards common goals. Discovering their personal energy and passion will give them a greater level of fulfillment and satisfaction in both their professional and personal lives.

Fourth Pillar: Use special Energy Tools that helps you to sustain and maintain your personal energy to increase your productivity and efficiency. This means not only to recharge your own energy on a continuous basis, but also to use your energy for making powerful and sustainable decisions. Your unique personal energy makes you to stand out of the crowd.

In summary, Energetic Leadership is a transformative approach to leadership that harnesses the power of your personal energy, passion, and collaboration to inspire and empower others, drive meaningful change, and create a culture of excellence and growth by using different energetic methods. 

Implementing Energetic Leadership in Your Life

Introducing Energetic Leadership into your life is akin to unlocking a hidden reservoir of personal power and potential. It begins with a fundamental shift in mindset – a recognition that your energy, both internal and external, plays a pivotal role in shaping your experiences and interactions. In order to become an Energetic Leader consider the following aspects to shift and include in your (business) life:

a. Self-Awareness

Assess and be aware of your current energy levels. Are you drained or energized? Reflect on how your energy impacts others and the overall dynamics within your team or organization and learn how to recharge your energy.

Prioritize your self-care – but not only on your physical level with sleep, nutrition and exercise, but also your mental, emotional and spiritual energy. 

b. Purpose and Vision

Define your purpose by asking yourself: What impact do I want to make? Knowing your why and having a clear mission is so powerful. Your purpose fuels your energy!

Visualize what you want to achieve and articulate a vision that inspires and excites others. Envision your success because your energy aligns with your vision and propels you and your goals forward.

c. Authenticity and Positivity

Be aware who you are, what your values are and what you stand for. Authenticity radiates positive energy and creates trust. 

Choose positivity and create a supportive and inclusive workplace culture where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. Be a role model and radiate the energy and positivity you wish to see in others. 

d. Innovation and Intuition

Embrace change (as you cannot stop it anyway) and focus on solutions, creativity and innovation. With more energy you are much more resilient, and have the energy for proactive problem-solving. By continuously learning and adapting you will boost your confidence, creativity and competences as a leader. 

Incorporate your intuition in your decision-making process. As an Energetic Leader it is important to make sustainable and powerful decision not only based on facts but if they are aligned with your purpose and your vision. 

e. Communication and Empathy

Promote open communication and active listening. Create opportunities for dialogue, feedback, and collaboration, fostering a culture of trust and mutual respect.

Lead with your personal energy and show empathy towards others’ perspectives, challenges, and experiences, especially during difficult times, fostering a culture of care and support.

Energetic Leadership empowers you to cultivate deeper connections, amplify your impact, and lead with authenticity and purpose. It’s not just a professional strategy; it’s a holistic framework that transforms every facet of your existence, enriching both your personal and professional life in profound ways.

5. Transformations You Will Experience

In today’s fast-paced world, where burnout is all too common and uncertainty looms large, the ability to harness and channel your energy effectively is more critical than ever.

Introducing Energetic Leadership into your life isn’t merely a leadership strategy; it’s a life-altering mindset that can transform both your professional endeavors and personal life. Picture this: within your business, you’ll notice a remarkable shift. You will drive productivity to new heights as your focus sharpens, and your ability to achieve more amplifies. Your team meetings become more dynamic and productive, with ideas flowing freely and positive energy palpable among participants. Creative solutions will flow and propel your business forward in ways you never thought possible.

Energetic Leadership is the power of your energy in action – your vibrant presence inspires action and drives positive change. As a leader, your influence expands, drawing others towards your magnetic energy. 

Beyond the office walls, the effects are equally profound. With increased energy levels, you’ll find yourself experiencing a renewed sense of vitality and well-being. Achieving a balance between work, family, and personal pursuits become attainable, leading to a more fulfilling life overall. This equilibrium is vital for maintaining both physical and mental health, ensuring that you can thrive in all aspects of your life.

Energetic Leadership isn’t just about achieving professional success; it’s about reclaiming control of your life and living with intentionality. By embodying these principles, you’re not only investing in your own well-being but also creating a ripple effect that touches everyone around you. Energetic Leadership involves not only managing your own energy but also supporting other in doing the same. It’s a powerful reminder that true leadership starts from within and has the potential to shape the world around us for the better. 

What Are You Waiting For?

In today’s dynamic and uncertain world, mastering your personal energy and embracing Energetic Leadership principles are paramount. It’s not just about thriving in the present, but also about preparing yourself for the unknown challenges of the future. 

Energetic Leadership isn’t just a professional strategy – it’s a holistic approach that permeates every aspect of your life, as leadership always starts within. Energetic Leaders lead by example, embodying the values they espouse and inspiring others through their actions and their energy.

By leading with energy, you not only transform your own life but also create a ripple effect that touches everyone around you. Your relationships, both personal and professional, will deepen as you become more attuned to your own energy and that of others.

Personally, integrating Energetic Leadership into my life has been transformative. It has enabled me to navigate challenges with greater ease, foster meaningful connections, and achieve a sense of fulfillment I never experienced before. Since embracing this mindset, I’ve witnessed profound changes not only in my professional endeavors but also in my personal relationships and overall well-being.

Managing your personal energy during changes isn’t just about personal wellbeing it directly impacts your ability to lead effectively and inspire others. But here’s the beautiful part: It’s not just about what you achieve; it’s about how you feel along the way. It’s about finding joy and purpose in every moment and creating a life that fills you with joy and contentment.

Energetic Leadership is a dynamic approach to guiding and inspiring others that goes beyond traditional leadership styles. Let’s embark on this journey on how managing your personal energy has an impact on your leadership and business life!