by Kavita Battula, VPG Contributor
The modern world is buzzing 24/7. From the moment we awake, and often before our feet hit the floor, we are consuming information. For some of us, this is exciting, for others, it can be exhausting.
For those of us who crave a reprieve, who need to find a moment of Zen to charge our batteries, how do we find stillness and calm? Is that even allowed?
I have learned that no one is going to give me permission to take what I need. I have also learned the power that comes from sitting in silence, the peace that I feel when I can put away the phone and the computer. I also recognize that this may be a luxury that many feel they cannot afford.
I remember starting out in my career, checking the Blackberry (think a pager with primitive email capability) in the wee hours of the morning for any messages from overseas clients so I could respond promptly. I know this is the reality that so many of you face. Far be it for me to tell you how to handle the demands in your professional life. But I will offer that a few minutes, set aside just for you, is an investment with a high rate of return.
Have you ever had a great idea come to you in the shower? Or while taking a walk? A break from stress is a good thing. It is, dare I say, productive.
I find that the first moments of the morning are most precious. They set the tone for the day. For those of you looking to bring some more ease and calm to your day, or for those of you who are curious and want to experiment with creating a quiet space, try starting first thing in the morning with a ritual that is just for you. Maybe it’s 5 minutes sitting by the window, looking at the sun’s rays. Maybe it’s a warm beverage. Maybe it’s a shower. Maybe it’s taking the dog for a walk. Maybe it’s journaling.
Yes, I realize this means not looking at your phone the first thing in the morning. If you can wait for even two minutes, that two minutes, just for you, can be impactful. Because, for two minutes, YOU are the most important thing. You deserve at least that.
Lean into whatever feels approachable. Uncomfortable perhaps, but not impossible. Don’t worry about metrics. Just take a step. This is your journey, and you will find your way.
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