ABSTRACT
This chapter explains the reciprocal influence of energy and connection in the story of an interaction at work. It observes two professors who were working together to design a new executive education course. These two professors worked together often, and sometimes engaged in social activities outside of work. The story of Jose and Peter illustrates how the energy of interaction partners varies according to the quality of the connection. The story also illustrates ways in which energy affects connection. The chapter also explains how energy affects the creation and development of work connections, using the example of the two professors throughout. It reviews the research on energy and connection. Energy is the feeling that one is eager to act and capable of acting. Energy can take the form of emotions, moods, or dispositions. Positive relationships are more than energy, but without energy there could not be positive relationships. The quality of a connection has a positive impact on participants' energy.
