Slowing down for clarity
Slowing down for clarity
Productivity can't solve everything
I started a new series back in September and experienced the beginning phase of it for much longer than usual. It was an extended in-between time, where I was working toward something new that hadn’t made itself known to me yet. It was invisible.
In the past, the main method I used to shake out of this state was to WORK and create something tangible. To get it out of my head and into the world. But that wasn’t the complete answer this time.
I had been overworking and not leaving enough space to connect the dots. I was trying to push the process along, my grip was too tight.
It was an uncomfortable time. So uncomfortable that it felt like I had broken my process.
Until I loosened my grip and did something that required looking past my capitalist programming. I dropped my self-imposed deadlines, quieted my social media, and focused on staying open.
Once I made my peace with these steps, I felt a heck of a lot better.
But it wasn't a fast process, it took time before I saw results.
I was impatient. I needed to convince myself almost daily that I wasn't procrastinating, that this was in fact a necessary slowing down.
After way longer than I expected I finally had a breakthrough.
The space I created made room for a complete vision of what to do next. Practically fully formed! Highly unusual for that to happen to me, and now I'm so excited to put it into action.
I had to slow down to get clarity in my next direction.
How to stay open
Notes for if you want to try this (and for my future self when this happens again):
Remember: there is no perfect way to do this.
Break your own rules.
Talk about your ideas with others.
Keep researching and looking for connections in new and unlikely places.
Keep the faith when it feels infinitely messy. You will get to the other side, it just might take longer than you’d like.
Checking in
The end of October is almost upon us. Here are my personal reflections from the monthly focus worksheet in my quarterly.
Who brings warmth into my life:
Friends and family that are near and far, my dog, and all of you who come along with me on my journey online.
How I can be more present in these relationships:
Lean into imperfect communication. Slow down and listen without interrupting. Keep the lines of communication open.
I’ve found slowing down to be addictive. After focusing this week on creating space to meditate within my studio I'm planning to do a media-free weekend starting at sundown this Friday. If you’re looking for some step-by-step inspo to do the same, follow the retreat guide here on page 5 in the fall quarterly.
To your slower pace,
Tina
P.S.
You may have noticed this email looks a little new. I decided to combine my art studio news, blog (Habit Refresh), and updates into this “Refresh” newsletter. I’ve moved onto a new platform so you can read it however you prefer: as a post (by going to this page) or as an e-mail. Plus it’s even easier to share with your friends (wink, wink).