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Current Issue

Posted 08.31.2009

Are you an Energizer Bunny?

March to the beat of your drum with passion and purpose

By Theresa M. Szczurek

Last night, I scanned over a stack of my daughter's Beanie Babies. The Energizer Bunny -- complete with drum and sunglasses -- topped the pile. This bunny uses that drum to boost or stimulate energy. She produces so much vigor and liveliness that she needs sunglasses to shield her eyes.

What drum do you and your team use for a pick-me-up or shot in the arm?

People who successfully pursue their purpose have tremendous energy, and they focus it to produce worthwhile results. Energy — the E in the "SUNFLOWER" traits of passionate pursuers — is the capacity to do work. Passionate Pursuers are like the Energizer Bunny, producing and effectively using energy. Hire and retain Energizers. These are the folks that you want on your team. Learn more at my blog entry, "Where is your Energy Source for Performance?"

PACK ENERGIZERS. Have you ever gone on a journey without a suitcase or backpack? It's just as important to pack essentials when embarking on a path of passionate purpose. It's most helpful to pack energizers — the positive forces — that encourage you along the way. Instead, people often pack hindrances — the negative forces — that discourage them.
Both internal and external factors affect energy:

INTERNAL FACTORS, such as self-esteem, curiosity, integrity of effort, optimism, and fervor (or passion) can be important energizers. You, yourself, are in fact the biggest source of energy. Know what helps you to be your best. Is it exercise, meditation, healthy food, a stimulating conversation, a meaningful purpose, seeing progress toward your goal, or what?

EXTERNAL FACTORS, such as the support of people, can be an encouraging force. Surround yourself with co-workers, mentors, friends, coaches, and others who help in some way.
Learn more in Chapter 12, the Pack Strategy, in Pursuit of Passionate Purpose.

PRACTICAL POINTERS

Be aware of what energizes you and your teammates. Notice what makes you feel alive, engaged, and energized. Create a list and post it in a visible spot.

Build. Intentionally nurture the positive forces. Seek to build yourself, support systems, spirituality, and other energizers. Take action.

Remember to take the energizers with you. Use your team to strengthen your collective memory and remind you what to bring along.

Hire, retain, and nurture Energizer Bunnies who produce, effectively use, and recharge others with their energy. Give out an Energizer Award to recognize and encourage.

Theresa M. Szczurek, Ph.D., co-founder and CEO of Radish Systems, is a serial technology entrepreneur. The story of her last start-up, which sold for more than $40 million in less than six years, is included, along with her strategies for success, in the Amazon-bestseller Pursuit of Passionate Purpose: Success Strategies for a Rewarding Personal and Business Life. www.RadishSystems.com, www.radishsprouts.typepad.com and @TheresaSzczurek on twitter.

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