The classroom isn’t the only place in Dr. Amanda Dye’s life where she turns to physics. Trusting in bigger ideas, such as the transfer and conservation of energy, has allowed her to sustain an important life balance and open state of mind.
Dye is a firm believer in the fact that her energy goes where it’s needed; transferring and dissipating as she moves through life. A simple act like holding the door for someone allows her to release positive energy, and she accepts the fact that she may not receive that positive energy back. But, the idea and intent that she’s putting out good energy allows her to trust that it will go where it’s needed.
Kindness and energy are inherently connected, according to Dye, and kindness is something that she has led with for the majority of her life. She used to solely validate herself through perfection, which pushed her through school and finishing her PhD at The University of North Carolina. But through reflection, Dye realized that kindness is really what people buy into. At her ten-year college reunion, what many peers remembered most about Dye was her kindness and positivity; a testament to the way she approaches life. One thing she’s learned is that people usually don’t remember the smartest person in the room, instead, they remember the kindest. Kindness, positivity, warmth and dependability are what humans innately gravitate towards, according to Dye.
Although she leads her life with positive and optimistic energy, Dye doesn’t disregard the fact that even she has bad days. However, instead of letting herself sit in negativity and let a bad experience get the best of her, she’s learned how to recenter herself. Seeking out colleagues during a difficult day at work reminds her of the importance of surrounding herself with positivity. Dye recognizes that positive energy always radiates outward and negative energy draws in, which she believes is true to physics as well as life. She’s noticed that people who carry negative energy tend to suck her energy out, making a day harder, whereas positive people naturally give energy, which rejuvenates her.
Taking time for herself, especially through yoga and consistent routines, allows Dye to maintain a balanced mindset. Dye’s hobbies are extremely important, yet she realizes that her passions will never be able to bring the same fulfillment that being surrounded by other people does. Support systems and community are extremely important to Dye, and she seeks to build community and connection in every space she enters. Focus on energy has made an eye-opening difference in Dye’s life, and she always hopes to spread her knowledge and positivity to those around her.
