Idioms, Phrases, Sayings & Proverbs

Keep That Same Energy – Meaning, Origin & Usage

By Richard Barker · · 2 min read

You’ve probably heard the phrase “keep that same energy” on YouTube videos or on reality TV. In this article, we’re going to give you a brief lowdown on what it means and where the phrase comes from, rounded off with a section featuring example usage of the phrase to better your understanding. Let;s get straight to it.

What does the phrase “keep that same energy” mean?

The phrase “keep that same energy” means what it says. It’s an instruction to keep up the same level of intensity and attitude that has already been witnessed. It asks for authenticity and consistency, urging someone to keep up the positive attitude and belief, and not to slip into self-doubt or a tendency to give up or put less effort in.

Where does the phrase “keep that same energy” come from?

Although we don’t know for certain who first coined the term “keep that same energy”, we do know when it became popularised, and how…

There was a video short on social media filmed in an Uber at a Wendy’s drive-thru in early 2018 in which a manager is having a go at an employee for an apparent shift in attitude, saying “You better keep that same energy”.

The video went viral, and it was even mentioned on a radio show called The Breakfast Club, where the hosts highlighted the problem of people’s inconsistency between how they act in public versus in private, or in this case, between what is said through a speaker and what is said face-to-face.

Later that same year, an American singer-songwriter and actress known as Teyana Taylor released her second album KTSE, which is an initialism of Keep That Same Energy. The album pays homage to classic R&B and soul music, and is centered on themes such as vulnerability, womanhood, empowerment, love, heartbreak, maturity and growth, and resilience. Of course, this album did a lot more to popularise the term “keep that same energy”.

How people use the phrase “keep that same energy” - featuring example usage

The phrase “keep that same energy” reminds people of their previous enthusiasm and attitude and also calls out a lack of it. It can be seen as a call for authenticity or as a call to face a challenge. Here are some examples of the term in use:

  • That was a great mock interview. Now you just gotta keep that same energy for the real thing.
  • Good job on the quick win, now you have to keep that same energy for the bigger tasks.
  • Great work in the friendly match, now you have to keep that same energy for the big game on the weekend.

Final word

So, to sum up, the phrase “keep up that same energy” is an instruction to maintain a high level of energy and enthusiasm. The phrase went viral thanks to a video short in a Wendy’s in 2018 that was discussed on a popular radio program, but what truly popularised the term was its use as the title of an R&B album later that same year.

Richard Barker

Written by Richard Barker

Richard is an English teacher with over 25 years of experience. He has dedicated his life and career to his passion for English, literature, and pedagogy, guiding multiple generations of students on their journey to discovery.