Who am I being?

This edition is dedicated to exploring the transformative power of embracing 'being' over 'doing' in our daily lives.

As a mum of three the last couple of months have flown by, with each day looking very different to the next. The need for us parents to find our ‘ease and flow’ during the summer holiday’s can be quite challenging. Many of our routines are out of the window and our days lose the structure we are familiar with.

This summer, I made the conscious decision to focus on who I was ‘being’ rather than what I was ‘doing’. This challenged me to let go of many expectations of myself and others.

We often find ourselves caught up in the never-ending cycle of doing, achieving, and striving for more. However, there is immense wisdom in stepping back, taking a deep breath, and focusing on the art of 'being.'

The Beauty of Being Present

In a world full of distractions, the practice of being present can be truly revolutionary. Instead of constantly chasing future goals or ruminating over the past, allow yourself to fully engage with the present moment. Whether it's savouring the taste of your morning coffee, feeling the warmth of the sun on your skin, or listening attentively to a friend, these simple acts of presence can cultivate a deep sense of contentment and connection. For me, this summer I allowed myself to just go with whatever plans evolved that day. I didn’t overly plan or organise my days as I may have felt the need to in the past. This helped me to enjoy the simplest of moments with my family.

Cultivating Self-Awareness

Embracing 'being' requires a profound understanding of oneself. Take time to explore your thoughts, emotions, and desires without judgment. Self-awareness is the cornerstone of personal growth and allows you to make conscious choices aligned with your values and aspirations. Often outside support is required here as we can be subjective and have major blind spots to our thoughts and behaviours. I noticed that the quiet mornings were the times for me to read, reflect and journal – these routines I have found easy to keep. I noticed that this practice set me up to deal with the uncertainty of each day.

The Power of Stillness

Amidst the chaos, finding moments of stillness can be a balm for the soul. Whether through meditation, mindfulness, or a leisurely stroll in nature, carving out time for stillness replenishes your mental and emotional reserves, enabling you to better navigate life's challenges. If you feel stressed in a situation, bring your attention to one of your senses and choose to focus on this alone for a couple of minutes. This practice can be done anywhere and will bring you back into the present moment, reducing feelings of anxiety. I found myself doing this more and more throughout my days and noticed a feeling of calm.

Nurturing Meaningful Connections

In the pursuit of 'doing,' we often neglect the depth of our relationships. How often have you prioritised the need to be ‘right’ over a positive relationship. Shift your focus towards nurturing connections with others. Engage in heartfelt conversations, offer your full presence, and create memories that resonate beyond the scope of your to-do list.

Embracing Imperfection

The culture of 'doing' can perpetuate the illusion of perfection. However, by embracing 'being,' you can free yourself from the shackles of unrealistic expectations. Recognise that you are human, and your worth is not reliant on constant achievement. You are enough as you are. Embrace your flaws and vulnerabilities, for they are integral parts of your journey. Showing vulnerability also helps to build trust with others as they feel more comfortable with us.

Finding Joy in Simple Pleasures

Happiness doesn't solely reside in grand achievements. It's often found in the small, everyday moments. Take pleasure in a good book, a warm bath, laughter with friends, or a home-cooked meal. These simple pleasures remind us of the richness of life that exists beyond the realm of productivity.

Practicing Gratitude

Shift your focus from what you lack to what you have. Gratitude is a powerful tool for shifting your perspective and fostering contentment. Regularly take time to acknowledge the blessings in your life, whether big or small.

In conclusion, remember that embracing 'being' over 'doing' is not an all-or-nothing practice. It's a gradual shift in mindset that can lead to profound transformation. By finding balance between these two modes, you can create a life that's not only productive but also deeply fulfilling.

May you find many moments of joy as you work towards being the best version of yourself.

Maria Jeffers