There’s a lot going on in the market, in your organisation, in the media and most likely in your own head as well. All these events and thoughts can create a lot of noise, sometimes lead to overwhelm or be outright frustrating and exhausting.
We’ve spoken about the necessity of a good self-care routing before and I am assuming that you might have one that works for you. In case, you are still experimenting on how to find a better routine and habits that support you to show up as your best self… here’s another perspective for your consideration.
A few weeks ago, I did a six-day hike in Tasmania. Together with a small group and 2 guides, we explored the wilderness in Tasmania’s North-West, including the southern hemisphere’s largest single tract of temperate rain forest. It’s quite challenging terrain as there are no real trails, you have to carry all your camping gear and food plus navigate uneven ground with fallen trees, tree roots, river crossings and slippery slopes, all while avoiding snakes and a few other hazards. Nevertheless, about half of the group literally raced through the rain forest while the other half was a bit left behind. When we reconnected, we discussed the different experiences and expectations that we have had.
Look at what both groups mainly saw:
The fast ones literally flew through a lot of green. The slower ones noticed many tiny fungi and colourful plants that the fast group mostly missed.
There was also a different experience about how the soft, spongy ground and the whole environment felt. Walking slowly made us more aware of the ancient feeling that the 800-1000-year-old trees radiated. We had time to notice the different smells. Being slow had let to different awareness levels and we were able to mindfully notice what mattered to us: a deeper exploration and connection with an unusual and unique environment.
Once we shared our experiences, we decided to reverse the order of walking. We put the slower people at the front and at the next stop everyone realised that they actually saw more details that they had missed before. New perspectives were appreciated.
My challenge to you:
Where in your work and life could you slow down to notice more of what truly matters to you and the people around you?
I will be exploring more of this thinking in my upcoming online book launch this Friday, 19/3 at 12.00pm (registration link see below).
Looking forward to seeing you at either the book launch or one of my next events.
Stay well,
Ingrid