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  • Writer's pictureRachana Mannath

Sweetness of doing nothing – La dolce far niente

Updated: Jul 14, 2023


A little time with yourself can be enlightening...!!


Life seems to be a constant race these days. Whether you're in the corporate world, the government sector, or an entrepreneur, people from all backgrounds can agree that we're always on the run. With the inflation rate skyrocketing and the need to make ends meet, it's becoming harder for most of us to maintain a decent routine, let alone have time for our families. Striking a work-life balance has become more of a necessity than a choice. Amidst all this chaos and daily hustle, it's crucial to find a few minutes to connect with yourself. Taking the time to self-evaluate and check if you're genuinely happy is essential. Are you where you truly wanted to be at this point in your life? Or, in the race of life, have you lost sight of the purpose you had when you embarked on your life journey at the age of 18 or 19? What were the dreams you had envisioned for yourself? What is the purpose behind all this hustle? You might be wondering how consistently managing just five minutes of your day can help you reconnect with yourself. How can it lead to peace or a positive outcome? Let me share my personal experience. When I started my corporate journey, I had no idea about the importance of self-assessment or reconnecting with myself. After a few years, I found myself frustrated and stressed, unable to find the time for reflection. I was drifting away from my dreams and aspirations, allowing life's daily demands to dictate my direction. Then, one fine day, when I was overwhelmed and lacking motivation, I reached a breaking point. The weight of numerous chores and critical decisions, combined with the desire to plan a trip with my family, was taking its toll. In that moment, as I gazed out of the window towards the backside of my parents' apartment, something clicked. "I have had enough," I thought, as silence permeated my brain. I found myself immersed in the beauty of the garden, birds chirping under the autumn sun. Flowers adorned the trees, and the freshly cut green grass added charm to the peaceful afternoon. The gentle breeze brushed against my cheeks, carrying the fragrant aroma of autumn. Unconsciously, I sighed, and in that moment of pure silence, half an hour slipped away. As I returned to the reality of responsibilities and tasks, I realized that those thirty minutes had impacted me like a moment of epiphany. Suddenly, the French saying 'La dolce far niente' made perfect sense. From that day forward, I made it a point to allocate at least five minutes every day to enjoy the silence and the view of the garden. Over time, this simple practice became a routine, allowing me to reconnect with myself. Now, I am finally in control of the steering wheel of my life. Even when I can't follow my daily routine consistently, I ensure those precious five minutes are dedicated to "the sweetness of doing nothing at all." It has helped me maintain a connection with myself as if I had reconnected with a long-lost friend. Remember, it is essential to value the relationship you have with yourself because ultimately, you are the one driving your life. So, take a moment to do nothing at all for just five minutes a day – relish in the sweetness of doing nothing...............


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