Effective at doing nothing

I struggled with the constant need to be "productive" at all times. I used to catch up on the news while showering and listen to an audiobook during my walk from parking to my work desk. It felt impossible not to seize every downtime opportunity. However, I eventually realized the flaw in this mindset, recognizing the vital need for our bodies and minds to unwind. In our fast-paced world, embracing idleness may seem counterintuitive. Nevertheless, numerous stories highlight significant discoveries during moments of apparent inactivity, from Archimedes coming up with his principle in the bath, to Paul McCartney composing songs in the toilet, to Bill Gates’ annual Think Week. 

Various cultures worldwide celebrate the art of doing nothing."Dolce Far Niente," an Italian phrase translating to "the sweetness of doing nothing," captures the essence of savoring idle moments and fully embracing the present. It signifies the celebration of relaxation, leisure, and the simple joy of letting time pass without the constant pressure of productivity. Italians practicing Dolce Far Niente may be found at a café, enjoying a leisurely meal, or appreciating their surroundings. This fosters an appreciation for life's small pleasures without a rigid agenda. In contrast, the Dutch practice Niksen, a purposeful break from work and responsibilities to embrace non-activity, acknowledging the potential for increased creativity and reduced stress. It involves moments of gazing out of a window, sitting in a park, or daydreaming, recognizing the potential for increased creativity and reduced stress.

Clear benefits arise from embracing idleness. The realization that breakthroughs can happen when the mind is at rest challenges the prevailing notion that constant activity is the only path to success. This highlights the importance of allowing our minds the necessary space to wander and explore without the pressure of continuous productivity. It reduces our stress levels, boosts our creativity, and improves mindfulness by allowing us to focus on enjoying the moment. For instance, Kaplan's Attention Restoration Theory highlights the cognitive benefits of taking breaks in natural environments. Other studies suggest that mind-wandering is predominantly future-focused, allowing us to think farther ahead, prioritizing what is best for our "future-selves".

What can you do? Three ideas for you to try next week:

1. Engage with your environment for 20min. Take a walk or sit at a park without your phone and observe your surroundings. Let your mind wander. Write down what you kept thinking about, and do something about that.

2. Savor your next meal/drink. Instead of waking up, brewing (or buying) nice coffee and then quickly drinking it while doing something else… try drinking it slowly, with your eyes closed. Savor it, enjoy it, and then see how that changes your day.

3. Create a Character and fully embrace it. Inspired by "The 3 Character Alarms" concept, create at least 1 alarm on your phone to signal one mode where you want to be fully present. Whether it's "Parent of the Year from 5-8pm" or "World Fitness Champion from 6-8am" be present, remove your phone and fully focus on playing that Character.

Slow down, you crazy child,

Jorge Luis Pando

"Slow down, you crazy child, and take the phone off the hook and disappear for a while. It's all right, you can afford to lose a day or two. When will you realize, Vienna waits for you?" - Billy Joel

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