The 7 Levels of Energy

Understanding Energy

The Energy Leadership model breaks things down into seven different levels of energy — basically, seven ways we can show up in any situation. Each level reflects a mix of mindset, emotion, and behaviour that shapes how we see the world and how others experience us.

At each level, there’s a core thought, a core feeling, and a typical action or outcome that flows from them. The model also brings in the role of the ego — that inner voice that tries to protect or control things — and how it can influence what we do.

You can think of the seven levels as a scale of awareness or energy, from Level 1 at the lowest end to Level 7 at the highest. We all move up and down that scale throughout the day; the real skill is noticing where you’re operating and learning how to shift when you need to.

This is the Energetic Self Perception Chart

                                                                                         Copyright - Bruce D Schneider

Level 1 is where everything feels like it’s happening to you, not because of you. It’s that powerless, stuck energy where self-doubt and fear take over, and you feel like you’ve lost control.

People in this space often avoid decisions, withdraw, and beat themselves up when things go wrong. It can serve as a kind of self-protection — keeping you safe from discomfort or responsibility — but it also keeps you trapped, disengaged, and unable to move things forward.

Level 2 is all about control, conflict, and competition — the “I win, you lose” mindset. It’s fuelled by frustration, anger, and the drive to be right, which can push people to take charge and get things done, but often at a cost. In this space, it’s easy to see others as the problem, to blame, or to treat every challenge like a battle to be won. While this energy can create short bursts of progress or productivity, it usually leaves tension, resentment, and burnout in its wake — for both you and the people around you.

Level 3  is where things start to lighten up. It’s the first level of constructive, or anabolic, energy — where you begin to take ownership and look for ways to make things work. The mindset shifts to “I win, and hopefully you do too.” You start rationalising, forgiving, and finding ways to move forward rather than staying stuck in blame or frustration. It’s a calmer, more logical space focused on problem-solving and compromise, but it can sometimes slip into just coping or settling instead of tackling deeper issues head-on.

Level 4 is where energy turns outward — it’s all about caring, supporting, and helping others succeed. The focus shifts from “me” to “you”, “You Win” with genuine compassion, trust, and gratitude driving your actions. People at this level want to make a difference and often put others’ needs first. It’s generous and heart-led energy that builds strong relationships, but it can also lead to burnout or frustration if you give too much or tie your worth to being needed.

Level 5 is where energy becomes open, curious, and solution-focused. You start seeing challenges as opportunities and approach situations with calm confidence, believing there’s a way for everyone to win. “Win, Win” It’s collaborative and creative energy that fuels growth and innovation, though it can sometimes drift into overthinking or risk-taking if not grounded.

Level 6, energy feels deeply connected — intuitive, empathetic, and focused on the bigger picture. You see patterns, possibilities, and shared purpose, and you operate from a sense of flow rather than control. It’s powerful and unifying, though it can come across as detached or idealistic if it loses touch with reality.

Level 7 is pure creation — the space where judgment and fear drop away. You see life as full of possibilities and yourself as the creator of your own experience. It’s visionary, fearless energy that can bring incredible ideas to life, but because it’s so expansive, it can sometimes feel out of reach or hard for others to relate to.