LEADERSHIP
How to make peace with energy vampires T he problem with the majority of energy vampires (EVs) is that they do not know they are sucking your energy. As an empath and counselor who facilitates personal development experiences and lives in a retreat home in Sedona, Arizona, people of all ages have been coming in and out of my office, and now my home, since 2005. I can tell you firsthand that EVs are everywhere and can be just about anyone—your best friend, a co-worker, your partner, even you. While most people cringe at the label “energy vampire,” the term is helpful to understand what might be happening at deeper levels within our psyches. An “energy vampire” is simply someone who is motivated by his or her own unconscious or semi-conscious need for attention. This need creates an imbalance in a relationship because the EV
24 Lead Up for Women
has limited awareness or genuine interest in the authentic needs of the other person. If you have a compassionate presence, you may be ideal company for EVs who depend on the kindness of another to feel “seen.” How can you tell if you or a friend, partner or co-worker is an energy vampire?
By Laura Marcos
For starters, EVs struggle to be alone. Even the thought of making a decision on their own might give them anxiety. They do not enjoy independent activities because they have learned they can sustain their energy from their external environment, thus subconsciously avoid looking more deeply within themselves. EVs can wear their sense of “victimhood” like a boy or girl scout
May-June 2020
