Is extraversion necessary?

Sometimes we mistakenly think that to really be an energizer, we have to be extraverted.  This isn't entirely accurate.  You can probably think of someone who is very outgoing who doesn't energize you at all--in fact, he might consistently drain your energy!

The key is not in extraversion, but in having an external focus--in other words, caring enough to notice others and their needs.  When we cultivate a sensitivity to others, we have a tendency to be inclusive, compassionate, supportive, and appreciative.  These qualities invite an open dialogue where all points of view can be expressed and discussed.

This external focus also allows true leaders to instruct, intervene, and correct when necessary.  They've built a cushion of positive interactions, and because their focus is on the success and happiness of others, they have an increased capacity to be effective.

One other thought.  This external focus shouldn't be confused with what deeply motivates and directs us.  I'll discuss this in another post, but we can and should be directed not by external events and people, but by a deep connection to guiding principles and morals.

Restarting

Well, I've taken a new position.  I've moved my family from southeast Michigan to Bountiful, UT.  The change has been a blur in many ways.  Several days after I began work, I was promoted.  Just as I was starting to feel a rhythm, several departments were reorganized, and my title changed with an expanded role.  I'm grateful for the opportunities to learn.
I'm also committed to completing my research and degree.  With the change in scenery, I've also had some time to visit with more people about energy and hear some different perspectives.  Here are a few things people have shared with me:
Energizers are different than friends.  Friends certainly may be energizers, but energizers increase my vitality, my capacity to do work.
Energizers require more than authenticity.  An energizer may be authentic, but one who is authentic may be neutral when it comes to their capacity and tendency to energize me.
Finally, I'm considering a change to the name of the blog, so readers can more easily connect.  Energizers and networks are terms that for some people seem like quackery (energizer) or ambiguous (networks--am I speaking of social networks, computer networks, business networks?).
I don't know the name yet, but will add to the blog, and try to come up with descriptions that can be understood as people that lift me, make me want to be better and actually become better.