Understanding Anabolic Energy: Levels 3 and 4
Now that we’ve discussed Catabolic Energy Levels let’s dive into the lower anabolic energy levels. Before we begin, it’s important to remember that all these energy levels have a place in our toolbox. There’s a time and situation for each of them. The key is identifying which energy level you’re sitting in during a problem and deciding if it’s the right tool. After all, you don’t want to use a Phillips screwdriver when a flathead would be more effective.
Level 3: The Silver Lining Level
Examples of Level 3 thinking:
“Well, the last child is at home, and it’s fine because I don’t have to make meals anymore.”
“I only have a purple Crayola, but now I have blue and red, so I can make purple.”
“I planned an outdoor party, and the rain made me cancel it, but at least my flowers are getting watered.”
I call this Level 3 the silver-lining level. At this stage, you’re always searching for the positive side of a situation.
When focusing on achieving your goals, your agenda is the driving force. Like Level 2, you focus on winning, but at Level 3, it’s less about others losing. If others win, great! If not, it’s no big deal.
At this energy level, you’re good at rationalizing and finding ways to cope, forgive, and tolerate to stay focused on the goal. You interpret others’ actions to make you feel better about yourself and them. This is how you handle stress, so this level is considered anabolic rather than catabolic energy. You have some control over the stress, but it’s still there.
Advantages of Level 3:
Your circumstances don’t stand in the way of reaching your goals.
You can address negative situations and stressors without letting them stop you.
You find ways to stay positive and move forward.
Disadvantages of Level 3:
Sometimes, you settle for “good enough” because you over-rationalize.
This can prevent you from reaching your full potential.
For example, when I broke my ankle and had to cancel the rest of our trip, I found myself in and out of this space, thinking, “It’s fine because I’ll get home to see my kids sooner.”
Level 4: The Helper – Heart-Centered Energy
Examples of Level 4 thinking:
“I need sleep, but my child needs me to make cookies for school.”
“If I don’t do it, who will?”
“What can I do to take something off your plate?”
At Level 4, you’re operating from a heart-centered space. This is the helper’s energy level. You’re caring, giving, and supportive. Many of my nonprofit clients (whom I call my “joyriders”) often sit in this space at various times.
At this level, you feel selfless, but there’s often a feeling of personal satisfaction tied to helping. You’re also able to express profound gratitude. Many of us proudly wear the “super-helper” badge. You tend not to take things personally at this stage and can see situations more objectively. You give much of yourself to improve things, although there’s often some judgment of the other person’s situation.
Advantages of Level 4:
You build solid collaborations and teamwork.
You easily inspire others and are equally inspired by causes you believe in.
Helping others brings you joy and fulfillment.
Disadvantages of Level 4:
You may become so focused on being liked or showing compassion that you avoid pushing yourself out of your comfort zone.
You often avoid seeking help for yourself, which can cause you to run dry or burn out.
- https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-path-to-passionate-happiness/202208/4-ways-to-see-the-silver-lining-in-anything
- https://welldoing.org/article/5-self-care-tips-super-helpers-protecting-yourself-as-you-help-others
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