I may be late to the Swifty scene, but I know an empowering message when I hear one.

Taylor Swift has a gift—not just for songwriting, but for being unapologetically true to herself. That wisdom didn’t come easy. It’s been shaped through years in the spotlight, relentless public scrutiny, and the demands of a life lived louder and faster than most of us can imagine.

But amidst the sparkle and stadiums, she recently dropped a line that stopped me in my tracks.

“Think of your energy as if it’s expensive. Not everyone can afford it.” — Taylor Swift, on the New Heights podcast with Travis and Jason Kelce

Mic. Drop.

💎 The Most Expensive Things You Own: Energy, Time & Attention

That quote echoed something I’ve been trying to articulate in my own life and in my work:

It’s all expensive.

Your energy. Your time. Your attention. And you are the gatekeeper

Every day, we make micro-decisions that either protect or leak these resources. When you're a woman navigating a big, beautiful, non-stop life—whether you're raising kids, leading teams, or both—this understanding becomes essential.

So, let’s explore how to protect your energy and intentionally design breaks into your days, one wise (and possibly Swift-inspired) choice at a time.

✨ The Last Great American Dynasty... Understanding the Luxury You Already Own

Our resources may feel limited—especially when we’re juggling careers, caregiving, and creative pursuits. But they are ours to manage. Taylor pours her heart into what she does, but it’s clear she’s learned to discern what’s worthy of her energy.

You can too.

💫 Always and Forever... The Essential Role of Breaks

Taking breaks isn’t indulgent—it’s intelligent. Regular breaks boost clarity, reduce stress, and help us shift from reactive to intentional.

Here are a few of my go-to resets:

• Micro Breaks: 5–10 minutes to stretch, breathe, or dance like you’re on tour with Taylor. 
• Lunchtime Detox: Step away from your desk. Eat mindfully. Connect with someone without talking about work or worries.
• Nature Breaks: A walk in the sun, among trees, or to the rhythm of birdsong can do wonders for a busy mind.

🎶 You Need to Calm Down... Self-Care Isn’t Optional

Self-care isn’t spa days and bubble baths (though those are great too). It’s about meeting your basic needs and honoring your emotional well-being.

Here are a few self-care acts that matter most right now: 

• Healthy Eating: You fuel everyone else—time to fuel yourself with intention. 
• Movement: Whether it’s a midday walk or a midnight dance to “Folklore,” move your body with love. 
• Restful Sleep: Create a bedtime routine that feels like a gentle landing, not a crash. 
• Joyful Passions: Stop saving the good stuff for “when things slow down.” They won’t. Make time now for what lights you up.

🚫 Should’ve Said No... Saving Space for What’s Sacred

You can’t say yes to everything. And you shouldn’t.

Start protecting your yes. Start honoring your no

Here’s how: 

• Pause before committing: Ask yourself, Does this align with what truly matters right now? 
• Delay your answer: “Let me think about it and get back to you” is a boundary in disguise. 
• Say it kindly, but clearly:
• “I wish I could, but I can’t commit right now.” 
• “Thanks for thinking of me, but I’m going to pass this time.” 
• “That sounds great, but it’s a no for now.”

💖 ME!... Intentionally Living Your One Big Life

Taylor’s message reminds us: you are not just someone who gives endlessly to others. You are someone who deserves to be protected, prioritized, and poured into.

When you treat your energy, time, and attention as luxury assets, the world around you shifts. You stop surviving and start thriving—on your terms.

🎁 Want a Little Help Getting Started?

I created a FREE worksheet to help you reflect on where your energy is going—and where you want it to go instead.

👉 Click here to download “What to Let Go Of This Season” 

🎶 Let’s Connect!

We may not be able to swap friendship bracelets, but we can swap favorite Taylor songs! 

💬 Drop your favorite empowering Swift song in the comments, 

🎧 Add it to my community playlist, or 

📱 Find me on Instagram @CoachDeShawnWert to continue the conversation.

📝 A Final Thought

Taking time for yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential.

It’s how you show up brighter, bolder, and more fully alive.

So here’s your permission slip. Signed by Taylor’s wisdom and stamped with your own self-worth: 

Your energy is expensive. Your time is precious. Your attention is sacred. Invest them wisely in your pursuits.