Have you ever noticed that some people leave you feeling energized, while others leave you feeling drained?

The conversation might take the same amount of time. But the impact on your energy is completely different. Some people encourage us, support us, or inspire us.

I think of them as Energizers.

Others constantly complain, or create drama, or always criticize. Or simply leave us feeling exhausted after every interaction.

I think of them as Energy Vampires.

The truth is that the people we spend time with have a significant impact on our energy. We need oxygen, water, and food to survive. But human connection helps us thrive.

One of the most remarkable findings from the Harvard Study of Adult Development was that good relationships are one of the strongest predictors of a happy and healthy life. As Robert Waldinger, the current director of the study, put it: "It’s the quality of your connections that shapes your life."

One Small Step

Take a sheet of paper and draw two columns, one for energizers and one for energy vampires. Now write down the names of people you regularly interact with. And ask yourself: Who leaves me feeling uplifted? Who supports my growth? Who drains my energy? Who consistently leaves me feeling stressed or exhausted?

Then ask one final question: What is one small change I can make this week?

Perhaps it's spending more time with an Energizer. Perhaps it's creating healthier boundaries with an Energy Vampire.

You don't need to change your entire social circle. Sometimes one small adjustment can make a remarkable difference.

🚀 This is one of the many stories and practices I share in my book BOOST - Energize Your Life One Small Step at a Time, which is now available wherever books are sold.

Who is one Energizer in your life that you're grateful for?