When people talk about “energy,” they often mean sleep or caffeine. And sure, those help. But the things that truly energize me come from moments that lift my spirit, fuel my creativity, or remind me of why I do what I do.

A Florida Gators win will always do it—no matter the sport. When the Gators brought home the national championship in basketball last year, I floated on that high for a week. Football may not be delivering much joy right now, but any big Gator victory recharges me like little else.

I find energy in writing, especially when an idea clicks and I know I’ve hit something special. That doesn’t happen often—because I’m my own toughest critic—but when it does, it carries me a long way. I’ll never forget finishing my novel last year and seeing the ending come together so perfectly. That was a moment of pure pride.

Then there’s worship. When I’m lost in the music, standing in praise, I sometimes feel like I’m right there in the presence of God. It’s a spiritual high that can’t be matched.

In the classroom, the breakthroughs matter. Every now and then, a student makes a leap in reading or writing, and I know I’ve helped them cross a bridge. Just one or two of those moments each year remind me I’m where I belong. And when a former student writes to say I made a difference in their life—well, that keeps me floating for days.

Family brings its own kind of energy. Hearing my grandson Sullivan cry out “Papi!” with joy, or having him run into my arms, is a shot of life straight to the heart. And when I create the perfect romantic moment with my wife, Daryl—like I managed for our 10th anniversary—it’s a memory that charges me up for the long haul.

So yes, coffee helps. But the real energy comes from connection, pride, joy, and love. Those are the moments that make me feel fully alive.

Copyright © 2025 Doug DeBolt.