Energized By Design
Yesterday reminded me how important it is to pay attention to energy.
Coming off a holiday weekend, I thought I was rejuvenated and ready to tackle the mountain of tasks waiting for me. I’d done everything “right” — plenty of rest, a long weekend filled with enjoyment — so I figured I’d be ready to roll. But when I logged back in? The fog hit. My body felt heavy, my focus was scattered, and no matter how much I tried, the reports I needed to finish just weren’t happening.
Now, I’m grateful I have enough flexibility in my role not to push through at all costs. Because goodness, that day… I needed space. I even tried forcing my focus, but my body fought back — I felt overheated, like I was teetering on the edge of getting sick. Instead of pushing harder, I stepped away. I read a professional book (a little work-adjacent win), went on a short stroll, and let some fresh air clear my head. I chilled.
And wouldn’t you know it? The next day, I knocked out the report, tackled my tasks, and logged off, actually feeling productive.
That’s the thing: sometimes energy isn’t about how much rest you had or how long your to-do list is. It’s about alignment.
What Human Design has shown me
One of the things I appreciate about Human Design is the way it reminds us that energy looks different for everyone. Some of us light up when we’re doing work that excites us. Others feel their best when they’re offering guidance instead of grinding through tasks. Some folks thrive in short bursts — starting things, then needing time to rest. And for many, the environment around them makes all the difference; the right space or people can completely shift how energized they feel. Then there are those days when nothing seems to work and you just need to turn it off — and that’s okay.
Notice your energetic patterns and ask: What is it trying to tell me right now?
For me, that post Labor workday, it was saying, “Slow down. Don’t force this. Step away.” And listening made all the difference.
If you’re curious what your energy might be saying in design terms, you can grab your free chart here.
