No (big) Thing

Quite literally one of the hardest things for me to do is… nothing.

I am always trying to make sure every minute of my day is well used; everyone is copacetic and everything is under control. Efficiency, expediency and effort…the three Es that normally guide me through the day.

Why just sit and read, when I can also get laundry done, scroll through media feeds, reach out to a friend, make my shopping list and bake granola?

Why would I limit myself to just one task, when I can get multiple things done simultaneously?

I am not sure who I am trying to prove something to (could be myself) or what I am trying to prove (could be that I am worthy of praise), but I nonetheless proceed to push on with my active and accelerated mission: get it done – now!

Multitasking is a way of life for me, as it is for many.

Our society thrives off being busy.

We praise people for kicking it into overdrive.

We reward those who go the extra mile.

We send accolades to the go-getters.

So, what happens when we downshift?

What happens when we mindfully will ourselves to stop; when we purposefully erase our “to-do” lists; when we force ourselves to sit still and empty our minds; when many things just don’t get done right away?

Contrary to popular opinion (mine) – we do not wither away or melt into a puddle like the wicked witch.

Interestingly enough, stuff happens.

Creative juices get flowing and ideas manifest themselves.

Chaos and noise are not necessarily conducive to vision and inspiration.

Pressing pause and resting can actually be the catapult we need to propel us into the next project: with poise, purpose and passion.

The respite can restore.

The rest can reenergise.

The reset can revive.

I am grateful for the opportunity (and the will) to be able to press pause and greet 2024, with a greater vision of my hopes, dreams and general state of being.

Wishing all of my faithful readers – and my curious new followers – a New Year full of healthy challenges, meaningful connections and unadulterated rest!

This breath of fresh air has been brought to you by Grit&Grace, resting by the fireplace!