Hey there!
Today, I want to dive into a topic that has been on my mind lately, and an idea of my own that I want to develop and share with you.
The idea is related to a trend that has emerged, in the last few years I believe, as a response to our fast-paced and hustle-prone world, that proposes "doing nothing" as an alternative to the productivity-obsessed culture that seems to be predominant these days.
While it's essential to break free from the constant hustle, I believe we need to explore this concept with a critical eye.
The Myth of Doing Nothing
Picture this: someone asks you, "What are you doing?" and you respond casually, "Oh, nothing." But have you ever stopped to ponder the truth behind those words?
The reality is, it's impossible for us to indeed do nothing. We are always breathing, existing, living. Even in moments of stillness, our minds are active, absorbing the world around us.
So what is going on when we are doing nothing?
In my experience it is mostly the case that we find ourselves in a state of absent-mindedness, dismissing the options in front of us, we inadvertently let time slip away. We become passive observers rather than active participants in our lives.
This may not be a negative thing per se, I think that it is up to us to ask ourselves “Is this a good way to spend my time?” or “Do I like to do this?” If the answer is yes, perfect, do it as much as you like; if it is no, however, try to take it as a gentle wake-up call to be more mindful of our actions and choices, seizing the opportunities that lie before us.
The false dichotomy of doing nothing.
Now, let's address the recent trend of embracing "doing nothing" as a rebellion against our productivity-obsessed culture. While it's a well-intentioned response, it presents its own set of challenges.
The idea that we ought to do nothing instead of constantly grinding creates a very narrow perspective of the options that we have at our disposal, it is a false dichotomy that tells us that we are either doing something productive or nothing.
In doing this they maintain the same framework that sustains the productivity discourse, the same that labels any activity that doesn't fall under the "productive" category as "nothing," and thus disregarding the vast array of meaningful experiences that lie in between.
The alternatives
So, how do we navigate this delicate balance between productivity and idleness? Here's some practical advice to help guide us:
Set your own priorities: Take a moment to reflect on your values and what truly matters to you. Identify the activities that align with your life project and invest your time and energy into them.
Allocate the right effort and energy: Recognize that it's not about going hard all the time nor about being permanently idle. It's about finding the right balance for each activity. Some tasks require intense focus and dedication, while others benefit from a more relaxed and laid-back approach. By giving each activity the appropriate amount of effort, you can accomplish tasks effectively without burning out.
Embrace creativity: Creativity is a powerful antidote to the false dichotomy of productivity versus doing nothing. It goes beyond artistic pursuits and encompasses a wide range of activities. Engage in a hobby that brings you joy, embark on personal projects that challenge and inspire you, or simply take the time to sit still and let your thoughts wander. By nurturing your creative spirit, you tap into a wellspring of fulfillment and self-discovery.
To put an end to this post, let's challenge the notion of "doing nothing" and embrace a more nuanced perspective on time. It's up to us to evaluate and seize the opportunities that lie before us, and failing to recognize the subtle options before us may lead us to miss out on some of the significant experiences available to us.
-Alan