Day Three: Energy Matching

Have you ever noticed days have energy?  There are days with high energy, low energy, and everything in between.

Have you also noticed that children always have energy?  And most of the time they aren't stressed.  The energy of the day doesn't seem to matter to them.  Unless there is something seriously wrong in their world, they meet the day with enthusiasm and excitement.

Adults, on the other hand, are prone to low energy levels and high stress.  The combination of an adults low energy/high stress level, and a child's high energy/low stress level can often lead to family explosions.

So how do adults manage such hazardous combinations?

The solution is to moderate energy output to match the energy and stress levels of the day.  The first focus and priority should always be relationships, and other demands can be adjusted.

On a high stress, low energy day, adding more pressure can only lead to more stress, and eventually explosions.  If you're having one of "those days" it might be a good day to order pizza and watch a movie.  Or go out to eat.  Or let the dishes sit in the sink and play.  It sounds like a no brainer, but how may people do you know who pressure themselves to get everything accomplished on their daily checklist but hurt the people they love in the process?  When there is a limited amount of energy available, conserve for important relationships and make adjustments to external demands.

Of course there are a number of stress/energy combinations, and children don't always fall into the high energy/low stress category.  Parents should be aware of children's energy and stress levels and adjust demands as necessary.

Ultimately, as we match the energy of the day with reasonable expectations of ourselves and those around us, the possibility for shouting, yelling, or harsh responses is decreased.

Good luck keeping up with the challenge!