Doing vs Being

 A couple of weeks ago I wrote about not having any more zero days, where each day I should do something to fulfill whatever goals I have.

But I've also been thinking about being. 

For most of my life I've always been a doer. I've felt, still feel, that I have be productive everyday, either working to make money or taking care of people, pets, places and things. I would write a "To Do" lists just to get a thrill of crossing things off! Once I wrote my "To Do" list after a very busy day, then sat and crossed out all the things I had done that day! Doing this makes me feel as though I'm earning my place in the day!

Recently, however, especially the last couple of weeks when my back was so painful that standing for more than a few minutes was impossible, I've been wondering is doing all the time really neccessary. Do I need to push myself to get up and hit the road running each and every day. Is it alright to slow down a bit? 

I've been watching a couple of Japanese ladies YouTube channels. They are about my age and are embracing a slower way of life. They take care of their homes, the people around them, one of the ladies has 8 cats to take of. But at the same time they take time to enjoy the nature around them, nice cafes, walks in the countryside, baking treats and home cooking without enforced schedules. I like how their videos show a purposeful life without constantly striving to achieve something, just being present in the moment and sharing the joy that comes from that! When I have chance I'll ask their permission to add a link to their channels on here.

I still think acomplishing something everyday is important, it's easy to let time just slip away and as I get older and relise that I have more days behind me than ahead I want to make the most of the time I have. 

When I was in so much pain with my back I had to change my priorites, I couldn't get out in the garden, sort out my closet or even keep the kitchen spotless. At first I felt guilty that I wasn't doing more, but then I felt that I am doing something. By resting I was allowing my body to heal. I also read a lot and tried to research about how teaching English has changed since I started and what new skills I would need in the future. 

I still feel doing something everyday is important. Even on my worst days I managed to wash a few dishes, sweep a floor, sort socks etc. But now I'm looking for balance. I'm going to allow myself time, everyday, just to be. This morning I sat on my bed and listened to the noises outside my window, the bird song, some animal rustling in the undergrowth. It felt peaceful until the thougts started, you should be doing something. I told myself, I am doing something, I'm finding peace in this moment!

If there are any mistakes in this, I'm sorry! I've been using Grammarly but it doesn't seem to be working!

A nice peacful photo to finish with.  Chrittopher took this, it's near the bus stop that he uses.

Lovely view