Effective Ways to Support and Energise A Team

 

Effective Ways to Support and Energise A Team

In today’s fast-paced world, leaders face constant pressures to keep their teams motivated and engaged. But to truly energise a team, leaders must also focus on sustaining their own energy.

Without a solid personal energy management strategy, it becomes harder for leaders to consistently show up with clarity, purpose, and the enthusiasm their team needs.

 

Why Leaders Must Manage Their Own Energy First

Studies show that leaders who take a deliberate, proactive approach to managing their own energy are less prone to burnout and better equipped to maintain high performance.

As Daniel Goleman, an authority on emotional intelligence, points out, self-awareness is crucial for managing both physical and emotional energy.

This intentional energy management translates into a more focused, positive, and effective leadership style that benefits the entire team.

 

 

#1. Identify and Align with Your Energy Peaks and Troughs

The first step to becoming an energising leader is to be aware of your natural energy rhythms.

Everyone has specific times during the day when they feel more focused and times when they feel more drained.

As a leader, it’s essential to recognise these natural fluctuations:

• Maximise high-energy periods: Reserve critical tasks, such as strategy sessions or one-on-one meetings, for times when you feel most alert.
• Protect your low-energy times: During your low-energy periods, focus on administrative tasks or quick email checks, so you don’t deplete energy for crucial interactions.

For example, holding an important team meeting at the end of the day may leave both you and your team feeling depleted.

By planning around your energy peaks, you’ll be more present and engaged, helping your team feel supported and valued.

 

#2. Build Simple, Consistent Rituals to Recharge

Small habits can significantly impact your energy levels.

Positive psychology research shows that micro-rituals—such as a quick walk, stretching, or deep breathing exercises—help restore focus and reduce stress.

Integrating these routines into your daily schedule can prevent energy slumps:

• Walks or fresh air breaks during lunch.
• Stretching exercises between tasks.
• Breathing exercises or quick meditations for a mental reset.

These quick rituals can be especially helpful before challenging conversations or demanding tasks, allowing you to approach each interaction with renewed energy.

Regularly practising these habits helps build resilience and steadies your focus.

 

#3. Set Boundaries and Prioritise Well-being Activities

Leaders often face blurred lines between work and personal life.

However, setting boundaries is crucial for maintaining the energy needed to lead effectively.

Establish start and end times for work, and prioritise well-being activities:

• Schedule physical activities: Whether you enjoy running, swimming, yoga, or just catching up with friends, make these activities a priority in your calendar. They’re as important as any work meeting.
• Switch off work communications during personal time to fully recharge.

This boundary-setting not only benefits you but also sets a healthy example for your team, showing them that well-being is a shared priority.

 

#4. Practise Positive, Balanced Communication with Your Team

Being an energising leader isn’t about projecting constant positivity but about framing challenges in a way that encourages resilience. For example, during a difficult situation, you might say, “I know this is tough, but I believe we can find a solution.” This type of communication acknowledges the challenge while inspiring a can-do spirit. This approach avoids “toxic positivity” by being realistic and empathetic, fostering an environment where people feel both supported and motivated.

 

#5. Inspire by Example

Finally, the best way to energise your team is to model the behaviour you’d like to see.

By consistently practising energy-boosting habits, prioritising well-being, and communicating constructively, you set a powerful example for your team to follow. When leaders demonstrate self-care and resilience, it creates a ripple effect that inspires others to do the same.

 

Final Thoughts

To support and energise your team effectively, focus first on managing your own energy.

By creating sustainable habits, aligning with your natural rhythms, and setting clear boundaries, you’ll not only enhance your leadership but also cultivate a more positive, engaged team culture.

And if you want to know more, why not ask Ben AI – my AI clone – that I’ve built to provide you with instant, on-demand and personalised leadership advice whenever you need it.

Talk to Ben AI here.

 

Your coach,