When relentless demands of a busy life take their toll on performance, we tend to think that managing our time better will improve the situation. If we can just work faster, multitask more efficiently, things will be better, we think, as we buy the latest time management gadget or software.

However, as Jim Loehr and Tony Schwartz, authors of The Power of Full Engagement, explain, it is the skillful management of energy, not time, that most significantly affects high performance. Too often, we squander this valuable resource through energy-taxing habits—physical, mental, emotional and spiritual vitality drains.

Take this Quiz to identify your personal energy-enriching opportunities:

1: I rely on sugary or carbohydrate-rich snacks for bursts of energy when I need a pick-me-up. True/False

2: Life is an endless marathon to be endured; you just have to keep on running. True/False

3: I tend to do what feels immediately pressing and easier to accomplish rather than make conscious choices about how I invest my time and what matters most. True/False

4: I’m so busy I rarely have time to reflect on what I value most deeply. True/False

5: I seem to be stuck in overdrive; I feel like I’ve lost the ability to shift to any other gear. True/False

6: I do stamina, strength, flexibility and stability training irregularly, if at all. True/False

7: I regularly get less than six hours of sleep. True/False

8: I rarely take breaks; that way, I can get more done. True/False

9: When I take the time to notice, my breathing seems shallow; I seem to go a long time without taking a deep breath. True/False

10: I carry the weight of the world on my shoulders. Anxiety, frustration and overwhelm are ever-present for me. True/False

11: When I’m under pressure, I easily become harsh or defensive with others. True/False

12: Personal relationships are not something I devote a lot of energy to. If they don’t work, I move on. True/False

13: I smoke, overeat or drink heavily to help lower my anxiety level. True/False

14: It’s been a long time since I’ve done something purely because it was fun or felt good. True/False

15: Downtime is wasted time. True/False 

If you answered “true” to more than just a few of these statements, you’re probably not functioning or feeling as well as you could be.

Time to explore how to live in ways that enhance, rather than deplete, your energy?  Would you appreciate some help getting started?  If so, click here to schedule a 60-minute complimentary coaching session.

Author’s content adapted under license, © 2008 Claire Communications