How to Protect Your Energy from Everyone

How to Protect Your Energy from Everyone

Curious about how others navigate their sobriety journey? Here, the focus shifts to something a bit subtler but hugely important: energy. Todd Perelmuter talks about how human beings are “master energy manipulators” and explains that every worry, grudge and mental replay of old arguments quietly drains us. Instead of talking in abstract spiritual jargon, Todd keeps it grounded.

He points out that we all know the difference between feeling energised and wiped out, and links that directly to our thoughts, habits and relationships. You’ll hear how reliving painful stories, clinging to old hurts or obsessing over problems can leave you too tired even to get out of bed, while loving what you’re doing – yes, even a three‑hour wait at the DMV – can create “boundless energy”.

For anyone in alcohol or addiction recovery, this episode can feel especially relevant. Todd talks about people who “take our energy” and how constantly giving to those who only take leaves us empty, resentful and vulnerable. Instead of labelling them, he suggests treating these moments as feedback: if someone is trying to pull you down, it may be a sign your “energy is at such a high level” that they’re reacting to it.

There’s a strong emphasis on presence: energy goes where attention goes, and every second spent mentally in the past or future means less strength for what’s happening right now. Todd encourages shifting from resistance to love – loving the journey, not just the destination, like enjoying a hike rather than just longing to see the car park at the end.

If you’re tired of feeling exhausted by other people, by cravings, or by your own inner stories, this conversation offers a gentle reminder: you don’t have to give your energy away. What would change if you treated your attention as your most precious resource?