There is nothing passive about doing nothing...
This is one for all the ‘doers’ out there…
I'm a 'doer', it's my default mode. I want to help, make a difference, feel useful, have a purpose. I thrive off it really. It's what I've built my business on, it's part of my identity, or at least it used to be. Over the years I have had to learn that sometimes doing nothing is the best thing to do. I've learned it in small ways, like when I'm struggling to come up with ideas I've had to walk away, relax, walk the dog, take a shower and then bang - the ideas start flowing. I've learned it in big ways, like when my sister had alcohol problems and I tried everything to help and even fix her, and then I had to let go.
The thing is there is so much that is out of our control, and yet there is so much within our control, if we stop doing for long enough to see it. We live in a world of doing. We are subliminally told that our self-worth is based on how much we do and achieve. The idea of not doing, not taking action is seen as passive, apathetic, even lazy, and so if you are a natural 'doer' then right now you may be struggling a bit.
The 'stay at home' message has shone a light on this issue we have in our culture with doing. If our self-worth is based on how much we do, then what happens when we can't do those things? What happens when we are told to stop and do nothing? Who are we then?
There is a major re-balance happening in the world right now that is trying to bring us into harmony again (just my opinion). We need the 'doers' AND we need the 'non-doers'. If the 'doers' are grateful for the 'non-doers' and vice versa then we are on our way to more harmony.
So I'm letting you know that your self-worth is not based on how much you do or don’t do. This is an opportunity for you to see this for yourself, by using this time to slow down, and practice moments of doing nothing. Try it, even just for short bursts. Sit in the garden, take a nap, let the kids run around for a while, disconnect from the online world for a few hours.
This time is teaching us things. Take the time to stop and notice what you're learning. You may need it in the future, and the current 'doers' will be so grateful for it.
I really hope you find this useful and that it gives you some ways to bring perspective and hope to whatever you're feeling right now.
Photo by Sophie Elvis on Unsplash