Harnessing Kinetic Energy

Each new year feels like a quiet invitation to choose how we want to show up. For me, this year is all about movement—intentional, meaningful, and transformative. That’s why my word for the year is Kinetic.

The word "Kinetic" is rooted in the Greek term kinesis, which translates to motion. In science, kinetic energy is potential energy set into motion—it’s the power of movement, of things coming alive and into action. But for me, kinetic goes beyond physics. It’s a way of being.

Kinetic energy is what happens when we stop waiting for permission or perfection and begin. It’s that first, brave step into the unknown. It’s the momentum that builds as we stay open, curious, and connected to our purpose. This year, I’m focusing on living a kinetic life, and I invite you to do the same—not just thinking about empowerment, but embodying it, moving with it, and letting it guide us forward.

Why Kinetic Energy Matters for Empowerment and Embodiment

Empowerment isn’t just an idea—it’s something we live, something we move with every day. It’s what happens when we take what’s inside us—our hopes, our vision, our potential—and turn it outward through action.

But here’s the thing: empowerment isn’t static. It doesn’t happen when we stand still, waiting for the perfect time or the perfect circumstances. Empowerment is kinetic. It’s alive. It requires us to step forward, even when the path isn’t fully clear.

And it’s deeply tied to embodiment. Our bodies hold so much of our power. They ground us, guide us, and move us toward what we want to create. Living a kinetic life means listening to that wisdom—not just in our thoughts but in our breath, our posture, and our movement.

Think about it: When you feel empowered, how does it show up in your body? Maybe it’s a straightened spine, a steadier voice, or a lightness in your step. That’s kinetic energy at work. And when you embody that energy, you inspire others to do the same.

Living a Kinetic Life

Living a kinetic life isn’t about constant motion—it’s about purposeful motion. It’s about staying in touch with what drives you, taking intentional steps toward your goals, and trusting that movement—no matter how small—builds momentum.

Here are some ways to embrace a kinetic life this year:

1. Start Where You Are: Kinetic energy begins with activation—turning potential into movement. Ask yourself: What’s one small step I can take today toward the life or leadership I want to create? It doesn’t have to be perfect; it just has to begin.
2. Let Curiosity Be Your Guide: Curiosity is the spark of all movement. Stay open to learning, exploring, and adapting as you go. When you approach life with curiosity, even challenges become opportunities for growth.
3. Connect with Your Body: Your body is your greatest resource for movement—literally and figuratively. Find practices that reconnect you to yourself, whether it’s stretching, walking, dancing, or simply taking a moment to breathe deeply.
4. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection: Movement isn’t always linear, and that’s okay. Celebrate each step forward, even the small ones. Progress creates momentum, and momentum creates transformation.
5. Pause When You Need To: A kinetic life doesn’t mean constant motion. Rest is part of the process. It’s the stillness that prepares you for the next step. Honor the ebbs as much as the flows.

What Kinetic Leadership Looks Like

As leaders, living a kinetic life means modeling what it looks like to move with purpose, even in uncertain times. It means showing up authentically, staying open to change, and creating spaces where others feel empowered to move forward, too.

Here are some ways to bring kinetic energy into your leadership:

• Foster Momentum in Your Teams Create a culture where movement is celebrated. Encourage experimentation, reward effort, and remind your team that every step—successes and missteps alike—moves you closer to your shared goals.
• Lead with Embodiment Leadership is as much about how you show up as what you do. Pay attention to how your energy impacts the room. Are you grounded? Open? Engaged? Your presence sets the tone.
• Trust the Power of Collective Action Movement is more powerful when it’s shared. Collaborate with others who share your vision and values, and remember that leadership isn’t a solo act.

How Five/6teen Consulting is Moving with Purpose This Year

At Five/6teen Consulting, kinetic energy is at the heart of everything we do. Our work is about helping individuals and organizations move from intention to action—harnessing potential, creating momentum, and driving meaningful change.

This year, we’re offering:

• Leadership Development Coaching: For leaders ready to step into their power and create lasting impact.
• Workshops and Facilitation: Interactive experiences that empower individuals to navigate challenges, embrace equity, and lead with intention.
• Community Programming: Through collaborative partnerships, we’re fostering spaces where individuals can connect, learn, and grow together.

Whether you’re looking to deepen your leadership, build collaboration, or disrupt harmful systems, we’re here to support your journey. Let’s move forward—together. Visit Five/6teen Consulting to learn more.

Final Thoughts

Kinetic energy is about trusting that movement creates momentum. It’s about taking what’s within us and turning it into action—not waiting for the perfect moment, but embracing the power of starting, of stepping, of trying.

This year, I hope you’ll join me in living a kinetic life. Let’s move forward with purpose and possibility, creating ripples of empowerment and change.

If this edition resonated with you, subscribe to Empowered Voices for more reflections, tools, and inspiration. Let’s rise—and move—together.

Warmly,

Dr. Kim Davis

Founder & President, Five/6teen Consulting