Energy is the currency of human resilience. As we move through the various challenges in our lives, we continually engage our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual energy. It’s easy for little drains on our energy to become larger negative spirals, which, over time, can lead to exhaustion, mental health issues, and difficulty in facing new challenges.
To counterbalance this process, we can intentionally inject little shots of brightness that begin to break up these patterns and move energy in a positive direction.1 A “microboost” is a small thought or action that lifts your own energy or has the potential to spark joy in others.
I could make a list of 100 Potential Microboosts but that would miss the point. It’s a lot more fun when you come up with your own—in the moment or as part of a plan. Here are some of my personal favorites to get you started:
For Myself
I find that I am lifted by little bits of everyday beauty. Often, it’s something as simple as the way the light falls through a window. Take a moment to notice what’s right there.
For Others
It doesn’t take much to bring a moment of brightness into someone else’s life. Complimenting someone on a scarf they are wearing; letting a driver merge into traffic; finding tiny ways to create a smile—the opportunities are all around you.
For the World
During the pandemic, my neighbor and I have been taking regular morning walks. One day we saw these chalk hearts on the sidewalk. I don’t know who drew them, but they lifted me up. When you have a little extra energy, create some beauty—you never know where it might land.
In the spirit of “micro,” I’m going to keep this article short. Go spread some energy.
Love,
I’ve begun to think of this as creating “lift.” More on that in a future post!