I know what it’s like to be busy… I’m sure you do, too. My schedule has been jam-packed for a while, and I finally feel like there’s room to breathe again. Do you know that feeling?
This past week, I decided to lay back, celebrate, and embrace the joy of restful moments (not something easily done by myself).
I recently gave a TEDx talk last week - if you want more info on that, go back and check that post out. I was much needed and overdue for some downtime.
The art of doing nothing is often overlooked and undervalued in a world that celebrates constant productivity and busyness.
Yet, there is profound wisdom in embracing restful moments and allowing ourselves the luxury of simply being.
This post will explore the transformative power of doing nothing and how it can contribute to our overall well-being (yes, doing nothing can be productive!).
In our fast-paced lives, it's easy to forget that rest is not a luxury but a necessity.
Physical, mental, and emotional toll of constant activity and the importance of incorporating restful moments into our daily routines.
Many people wear being busy on their sleeve. It’s like a badge of honour in today’s chaotic world. Being busy is often not a good thing.
Wasting time is easier than ever, and being busy has much to do with random tasks.
Joy and peace can be found in moments of stillness.
There’s a beauty in quiet contemplation and the profound sense of contentment accompanying it.
I remember the day I looked into the Grand Canyon. It was early before the sun had risen, and everything was still and quiet.
It’s a hard feeling to describe, but it was joy in stillness.
There are scientific and psychological benefits of doing nothing.
Restful moments reduce stress, improve mental clarity, and increase overall happiness.
Downtime is essential for cognitive functioning, health, and overall balance.
Many people feel guilty about taking the time to do nothing (Hello! I’m one of those people!).
This is common and normal, but rest assured that rest is acceptable and crucial for your well-being.
It’s easy to feel guilty for doing nothing. Society wants you to believe that unless you’re busy, you’re wasting time.
It’s funny as it’s likely the opposite is true. I’ve learned to accept taking rest days and time to be inactive in anything important.
Create a peaceful environment, incorporating mindfulness practices and setting boundaries to protect time for rest.
Start your day off on the right foot. Rise early, make your bed, and start a solid morning routine.
Plan rest into your day, whether scheduled breaks, lunch, or a power nap!
I can’t stress the importance of disconnecting from technology and the constant demands of modern life to truly embrace restful moments.
Especially when it’s first thing in the morning or late at night.
Cultivate a healthy relationship with technology to facilitate genuine downtime.
If you need to set hard boundaries and timelines for device use - do it.
In a culture that often glorifies busyness, the art of doing nothing becomes a rebellious act of self-care.
My question is, are you ready to rebel?
Embracing restful moments is not laziness; it's a deliberate choice to nurture our well-being and find joy in the simplicity of being alive.
As you embark on this journey of embracing the art of doing nothing, may you discover the richness of surrendering to moments of rest and allowing life to unfold at its own pace.
It’s ok to take a break, nap, or day off.
So let this be the gentle reminder, here to tell you to take a break, a deep breath, and do nothing.
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Chris M Wilson
Chris Wilson is a keynote speaker, CTI coach, and entrepreneur. Through his Hover to Fly framework, he aims to impact the next generation in their careers and lives.
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