The 9 Reclamations of Becoming Unapologetic: Law 1: Protect your Energy, Fiercely

Hands protecting a flame

Ever feel like life handed you a sword and said, "Good luck, warrior!"—but someone forgot to give you any armor? Oreven hit on which way to point your shield. Were you ever actually taught what it means to defend your energy effectively?

For me – and many women I know – especially caregivers, quiet leaders, change-makers, cycle-breakers, and all the other labels and roles—this is what it feels like. 

Endless battles. 

Little rest. 

Burnout creeping in from the insides out.

Let’s be real: perpetual fighting doesn’t make you stronger. It makes you tired. And tired doesn’t win revolutions. It barely makes it to Tuesday.

My reclamation wasn’t just “taking breaks.”  It was learning how to rest, to be, to protect energy as a sacred, strategic resource.  I had to let go of the myth that self-sacrifice equals strength.  

Here’s the thing: if we control where our energy goes, we unlock clarity, creativity, and focus. Protecting our energy isn’t indulgent — it’s essential.  

Giddy Up, the next adventure awaits. 

This post is part of my exploration of energy as a sacred, strategic resource. I’d love to hear from you: Where does energy leak most in your life or work right now? 

Question: What drains your energy the most right now?

  • Endless battles / too many roles

  • Decision fatigue

  • Invisible emotional load

  • Lack of real rest

The Playbook for Energy Protection

🌧️ Know Your Drains, Plug the Leaks

Not everything deserves your time or energy. Meetings, tasks, and even people can drain your energy.

Action Step: Identify your top three energy drains this week. For each, ask:

  • Can I delegate it?

  • Can I delete it?

  • Can I redesign it?

Try This:
Write down one thing you’re doing out of guilt—not alignment. What would it take to stop doing it?

🗓️ Block Time for Deep Work (and Yourself)

Your calendar should reflect your priorities. Treat focus time as sacred.

Action Step: Block 30 minutes tomorrow for something energizing:

  • Brainstorm a new idea

  • Tackle a creative project

  • Take a phone-free coffee break

⏳ Your Energy is Sacred. Treat It That Way.

Small, consistent rituals are micro-investments in your long-term energy.

Examples:

  • Take a midday walk

  • Spend five minutes in deep breathing

  • Enjoy your coffee with zero distractions

Reflection Prompt: What’s one ritual you can start today to recharge?

⚔️ Draw the Line. Then Hold It.

Map where your energy goes and where it’s leaking. Use the Energy Shield Worksheet to:

  • Audit your commitments

  • Identify your top energy leaks

  • Create one quick win to regain energy this week

🌌 The Energy Ecosystem

Think of your energy like an invisible shield. Every "yes" to an unnecessary task weakens it.

Leadership is energy management. Say no when needed. Protect your recharge time with fierce commitment.

🎩 Immediate Challenge

Pull out your calendar. Identify your three biggest upcoming energy drains. Make one decisive change for each:

  • Cancel it

  • Delegate it

  • Redesign it

Example: Sarah, a mid-level manager, realized status meetings were draining her. She delegated parts of the agenda and freed up 30 minutes a week to focus on creative problem-solving.

✨ Empowerment Reminder

Protecting your energy is not about avoiding challenges—it’s about creating the conditions where excellence becomes sustainable.

When you fiercely guard your energy, you stop surviving and start thriving. Others will start to wonder: How does she do it?

"When you protect your energy, you reclaim your power. Let nothing drain it without your permission."

Your energy is not a limitless resource. It is a sacred flame. Guard it like your life depends on it.
Because sometimes, it actually does.

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