One of the principles of complex systems invites us to attend to both things and energy. We know energy propels things getting done, however, things rarely create energy. How do we, as leaders, collaborators, inquirers and mediators, be certain we are attending appropriately to both? One way is to keep a simple record of your daily work on a three- column chart. Here is an example which can be adapted to your needs. My phone is now telling me how much screen time I average per day for a week at a time. This triggered this idea for me to begin collecting data on how I am working in balancing these two critical functions. I discovered some things, like emails, can also go in both columns.

I now use this for weekly reflection, noticing trends and patterns and reflecting on cause and effects of my choices, and letting it inform me on making choices for the coming week.

Making charts for training -- Thing x 45 minutes

Phone call with TA -- Energy X 40 minutes

Meeting with Asst Supt -- Energy X 2 hours

What might be some ways you can become more conscious of how you are investing in being certain energy takes precedent over things in your life?