The Energy of Success

CHAPTER 4The Safety Zone

“You can't do this. Don't risk everything you have. It's not worth it. Stay safe!” Sounds familiar? Ugh … feel familiar? These are the words of that little voice in your head, the one some label as their inner critic or gremlin. The voices that tell you, “You aren't good enough,” reside in energy level one, the lowest level of energy a person can experience. Within this energy zone, people feel as if life is happening to them versus feeling in control of their choices and future. The intention of level one energy is to keep you feeling safe and risk free. The disadvantage is that self‐doubt and fear reside within this energy level, holding you back from stepping out of your comfort zone.

Safety Zone Qualities: Fear, Self‐Doubt, Risk Adverse, Avoidance

To better understand level one energy, we must start with its intention: to keep you safe. Energy level one is your security risk assessment tool. Scientifically, your brain is even “wired” with this safety built in. How so? The amygdala is part of your neural system, and one of its main roles is to evaluate your safety and alert you to threats. Throughout your day‐to‐day activities, it's important to acknowledge this tool and energy's use and strengths. Here are some basic examples of level one energy:

• Looking both ways before crossing a street
• Assessing your surroundings before entering a space, or adding your contribution to a meeting
• Conducting an analysis before accepting an opportunity

When used ...