Jennifer Davidson, Reality Check Coaching, based in Portland, Oregon, offers leadership for your career & life goals

I was driving home this week and saw a woman standing on the opposite side of the street holding a sign. I was a bit intrigued as I approached because she was well dressed and had a look on her face that said, “So over it”. When I was finally close enough to read the sign I immediately knew her pain and thought to myself…I hear you sister! The words were simple and hit me with a truth that is connected to all of us. The sign read:

Out of gas, Please help

While I’m sure that she meant the sign to be taken quite literally and in this economy with raising gas prices I can imagine many people feel the same way. However, it had a whole other meaning for me. How many times have you felt this way in life? Out of gas, and in need of some fuel to get your engine up and running again.

Well, the good news is most everyone can relate. It is important to acknowledge what level your fuel tank is at. If you are running on half empty most of the time what impact does that have on the things you do (career or other), the people you meet, your family & friends, and most of all YOU? Running low on fuel makes it difficult to live to your full potential and have the impact you really want.

Ask yourself:

• What fuels my tank?
• What is it that gives me the energy I need to be 100% in my life?

Be real about this. You already have the answer and if it is having a hard time yelling out to you…sit with it for a few days. Knowing how to fuel your own tank is powerful and contagious. You will teach others around you how to take care of themselves; what a gift and a blessing that is.

The goal is not to live your life without help from others, but to fill your own tank as often as possible. That way when you find yourself walking into work with a sign around your neck that says, “Got fuel, but in need of direction”, others will gladly join in and help.