We all know the feeling—there’s still half a to-do list left, but we’re running on fumes. That’s the trap of managing time without managing energy. And it’s something Jen Du Plessis broke down brilliantly on The Beyond Impact Podcast.
Jen doesn’t believe in traditional time management. She believes in energy management. Because let’s face it—if your energy is depleted, it doesn’t matter how much time you have. You won’t be able to show up fully, think clearly, or perform at your best.
“Time is irrelevant. Energy is everything,” Jen said. “If you can master your energy, you’ll never feel like you’re behind again.”
The 4 Types of Energy That Drive Everything
Jen teaches that there are four key types of energy we need to manage intentionally:
- Spiritual Energy: Your purpose, passion, and the deeper reason behind what you do.
- Emotional Energy: Your ability to process feelings, stay centered, and respond instead of react.
- Mental Energy: Focus, clarity, and decision-making power.
- Physical Energy: Sleep, hydration, nutrition, and movement—all the things that fuel your body.
When you learn to tune into each one, you can align your schedule with how you actually feel—not just what’s on your calendar.
Why It Works
Most people schedule their day based on urgency—not energy. But Jen’s approach flips that completely. She encourages people to schedule tasks that require mental focus when they’re most alert, and save creative work for when they feel inspired. She builds in space for rest, movement, and connection so she’s never running on empty.
“When you say yes to everything, your energy is saying no,” she told me. “You have to protect your energy like your life depends on it—because it does.”
Time Blocking vs. Energy Zoning
One of Jen’s most powerful tools is something she calls Energy Zoning. Instead of filling your calendar with random tasks, you group your activities based on the type of energy they require—and then schedule them during the time of day when that energy is most available.
For example:
- Morning = Mental focus (strategic work, planning)
- Midday = Emotional or physical movement (calls, walking, lunch)
- Afternoon = Creative flow (writing, design, problem-solving)
This allows you to work with your natural rhythms—not against them.
Hear the Full Conversation with Jen Du Plessis
Jen and I went deep on energy, alignment, and why burnout isn’t a badge of honor. If you’re ready to stop measuring success by how busy you are, this episode is a must-listen.
You don’t need more time—you need more intention. Master your energy, and you’ll master your impact.
