(Principles are basic truths that, when applied, cause success to come to you easier and quicker.)

Recently some friends hosted their young grandchildren for a few days. The almost constant-motion behavior of the kids demonstrates one of life’s lessons.

The children had an ‘on-off’ energy switch. They were either ‘on’ (full speed) or ‘off’ (asleep). Slight exaggeration, they did have some quiet time, just not much. Now they were not unruly/hyper/bothersome/damaged. They were simply energy-filled, curious children. Normal. A delight for their grandparents to be with, in fact.

The point here is that children have only an on-off switch. Later they will develop the usefulness of finding the dial. The flexibility of the dial is that they – and you and I – can set energy to the appropriate level for the moment.

Marathon runners know to dial it back during the bulk of the race in order to make it the full distance, then to dial it back up for the ‘kick,’ the sprint just before the finish line.

On the other hand, there are times and events in life when you create the outcomes you want by going all out, pushing as hard as you can for a long time.

Highly successful people have found their dial and know how to adjust their energy use to the optimum level for their current situation.

Coaching Point: At what age did you find the dial? Or are you still looking for it?

Copyright 2013 Steve Straus. All rights reserved.