I'm slowly getting used to the idea that there are now times during the middle of the day when I don't have anything I need to be doing. Odd concept, right? It struck me today as I waited to hear back from two clients that I my wait time is now my own time. At first I wasn't quite sure what to do. Having a strong work ethic and wanting to complete my tasks I frantically made lists, checked emails, and researched, but until I hear back, there's not much I can do.
So, what do I do in the meantime?
My fiance, as clever as always, suggested I work on my blog. No brainer, right? After all it is my most favorite form of work and aren't I aiming to make it more sustainable? All very true, but when faced with a few hours of time for it, I was a little stuck. What was I going to work on or write about? What project should I start with?
Trust me, I'm not complaining. It's just that it's been so long since I've actually had some time to spend on the projects I enjoy or take an extra yoga class or anything of the like, that I still feel a little guilty when I do. I attribute this to my transition and getting used to a varied schedule while creating boundaries around the work I'm doing. After all, the whole point of the upheaval was in order to have more time to do the things I enjoy rather than being tied to work that was not satisfying at all. It's liberating and frightening all at the same time, but I suppose given some time and a little practice it will start to feel more normal.
What is your favorite way to spend unexpected free time in your schedule? How do you stay motivated by the work you are currently doing? How do you create boundaries between your work and personal life?
Photo by Kara Allyson
I love reading... on my Kindle, on my laptop - I can be found reading blogs, news articles, books, whatever catches my fancy. Flipping through magazines. I also love to sip a hot drink and save articles or beautiful pictures, helpful articles and the like. I just enjoy being quiet in my free time or listening to music... You know, just the chance to do what I want without taking care of anyone else is a treat! :-)
ReplyDeleteUm, your last paragraph parallels my life, but the "upheaval" was the result of marrying my best friend in a very, very speedy manner.
ReplyDeleteHe is the most steadying and positive person I've ever known, and yet, I've never known Love in this manner.
Rapid upheaval- yes! What I've always sought- absolutely! Boundary bursting- uh huh! Adjusting to it all- oh yeah!
Adjusting, I believe, is key, while being constant to the few truths that remain. For me, that translates into more yoga, for in my body I grow more secure and am open to this amazing-beyond-words Love and Man (and his dynamic son!). It's also about working with my sadhana and realizing when things creep up- analyzing them or reflecting on them helps.
"Why am I uneasy with....?"
"How do I feel about...?"
"What needs to be healed regarding...?"
"What or Whom do I need to forgive...?"
Just some thoughts. :-)
His talent hangs out at www.sonnettics.com and www.kidseep.com ... you are welcome to visit during some down time if it's best for you.
Peace.
@Petula: "You know, just the chance to do what I want without taking care of anyone else is a treat! :-)" You are so right. It's the reminder that I need to take care of myself and not feel guilty about it later that I'm working on these days!
ReplyDelete@A World of Gratitude: Congrats! Is this a recent change? I'm so happy for you and finding this love. Will definitely check out the sites. Thanks for sharing!
Recent as in 5 weeks, so married longer than we knew each other before we got married! Ha!
ReplyDeleteWe were at home with the other in no time, so why wait?
Bonus blessing- the joy of a 12-yr-old dude who randomly calls me (not his Dad; his Dad calls him every day) to just chat, and who, when discussing plans for next weekend said, "I want to make a meal..."
Yes, Christmas dinner will be made from scratch (and well done!) by my favorite goober/critter of all time! :-)
So, yes, sometimes it takes stepping back from the "what the ??"ness to go, "oh yeah.." or, as the dear Sonnet Writer would say, "It's only 1s and 0s afterall.."
Peace.