We all know the feeling: a conversation that leaves us emptier than before. A presence that drains, a voice that takes without giving back. What if the old stories — of zombies, vampires, and restless spirits — were metaphors for this exact experience? #### 🧟 The Modern Energy Zombie: Recognizing the “Undead” Among Us In myth, the zombie is a soul trapped — a being moving without will, feeding without purpose. In life, "energy zombies" can look like: - The same complaints, recycled endlessly - Conversations that pull focus but offer no reflection - A lingering fog of fatigue after you engage They often don’t mean harm. They're simply stuck in a loop — and unconsciously pulling others into their orbit. The first step in protecting your energy? See the loop. Name the pattern. You don’t have to join the cycle. #### 🕯️ Becoming the Guide, Not the Fuel In old tales like the Chinese *jiangshi* (hopping corpse), the priest doesn’t fight the undead. They guide them home — using ritual, talismans, and clear intention. We can do the same with energy-draining dynamics: 1. Set boundaries like sacred seals. "I can listen until 4 p.m., then I need to recharge." 2. Ask guiding questions. "What feels nourishing to you right now?" (This shifts the focus from drain to reflection.) 3. Protect your light without extinguishing theirs. You are not required to burn out so others feel warm. You don’t have to carry them — just show them where their own light might be. #### ✨ Reflect With Us - Have you recognized an "energy zombie" in your life — or in yourself? - What’s one small boundary that has preserved your spirit? - How can we guide with compassion, without losing ourselves? Share your thoughts below. Sometimes, naming the pattern is the first step toward changing it — for them, and for you. Inspired by Classroom Lesson 1.1 and Mike's shared story. #EnergyAwareness #CommunityReflection

Continuing with my apparent theme this week, I thought those who haven't checked out my zombie writing course would be interested in this episode of Monstrum.

For those thinking about taking "The Art of the Undead" course in the classroom. Here's one of the reference videos that are part of the curriculum. This movie used to scare the crap out of me as a kid. Based on a true story about a man who investigated Haitian Voodoo culture firsthand. Enjoy!

Looking for a contract lawyer, an artist, a writer? A non-profit that supports artists? If so, check out the resource links section of the classroom at: https://www.skool.com/mikes-sketchbook-7350/classroom/42d6a40d?md=47adc23dde8142aa9dbc9f6e24842269 Plus, The Creators Union members can DM me and get their own links added to the list!

Due to technical issues with Skool, today's Live Co-Working Session can be found at: https://youtube.com/live/kde4ubkTuaU?feature=share