Life seems like it’s finally showing mercy and giving me a minute to slow down and take a break. Has anyone else been feeling this, or is that just me?
I know it might be far from the truth for some, but it has been my experience lately. I’m not slammed with back-to-back meetings and nearly unattainable deadlines. It could be a few things and possibly a mix of them all. First, it could be that we wrapped up our CITY’s Best 10-year anniversary party, which was like planning a wedding for 350+ guests in three months. Or, it could be that almost a year ago, I stepped down from 4 of 5 nonprofit boards I sat on and haven’t said yes to any new ones since. It could also be that I’ve been in regular therapy for a year and a half now, and I’m reaping the benefits of calming my central nervous system. And, could it be becauseMercury has decided to spin in the correct direction? I think that’s how that works, right?
Regardless, I’ve noticed a few things since I’ve been able to breathe a bit more lately:
- People still assume I’m busy, so they rush through all our conversations. Typically, I appreciate this, but lately, I kind of wish we could all slow down and get past the small talk, past the business chit-chat, and have a real conversation.
- Having a lot of responsibility and being under pressure motivates me, but that’s not how I always want to operate. Slowing down allowed me to shine light on how much of my identity is wrapped up in my work and how much is just me. Talk about an ego check!I’ve learned I can still find motivation alongside self-care through the simple desire to do good work.
- I’ve had time to work on the business rather than in the business. The grass grows where you water it, as they say.
Here’s the deal. We have created a culture of being busy. We wear it like a badge of honor. We are all so programmed to outwork the rest, or at least make it seem like we are. Last year, I granted my future self the gift of slowing down, and now, I’m experiencing the perks. I realized in the moments I said yes when I wanted to say no, I was actually saying no, but instead to the things I truly wanted to do. In this season, I’m challenging myself to sit in the minutes and hours without filling them. I want to enjoy with all my senses, the time I have with my husband, my dog, my friends, family, and coworkers. Because at the end of the day, what’s it all for?
Experience it all,
Missy Creed McFerron, Publisher(she/her/hers)