All around us in nature, nothing is being done, but everything gets done
Consider the lion. This magnificent beast spends a staggering 18-20 hours of its day resting, often basking under the sun's rays. And yet, despite such long hours of inactivity, it remains the undisputed king of its domain. With an entire pride to oversee, how does the lion manage to get everything done while appearing to do so little?
How can we, too, embrace this lion-like efficiency – resting more while still managing our responsibilities?
Our challenge lies in our understanding of productivity. We create extensive to-do lists, categorizing tasks based on priorities, desires, and long-term goals. And even as we start our day full of vigor and enthusiasm, we often end it feeling drained, with unchecked items lingering on our lists.
Contrary to popular belief, motivation and energy aren't magically replenished each morning like a wizard's spell slots in D&D. They are resources you expend and regenerate. Even seemingly restful activities like playing video games or endlessly scrolling through social media can deplete them, akin to how work can.
The Power of Embracing Stillness
To tap into our true potential, we must learn the art of true rest. Sit still, gaze upon the serene greenery outside, and truly disengage.
Welcome boredom. Relish it. Dive deep into its stillness.
For it's in this stillness that we find renewed energy and drive to tackle our tasks. We mustn't mistake leisure activities like memes and gaming as genuine rest. At times, these can be even more taxing than our regular work.
Structure your day strategically. Begin with the most mundane tasks and resist the urge to jump to another before completing the first. This method not only ensures efficiency but also cultivates an authentic interest in each task. Intersperse your schedule with moments of true rest, where you do absolutely nothing, or perhaps just take a gentle stroll. The key is to refrain from any activity that demands even a fraction more thought than your natural, relaxed state.
I've come across numerous studies advocating the benefits of genuine rest, and while I'm no scientist, I am an advocate of balanced productivity. This balance between activity and inactivity is what propelled me to write this piece, something I'd longed to do but lacked the energy for, until I learned to rest like a lion.
I hope you do nothing, and that you complete everything.
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