Sometimes I just go through my days, doing what I do and handling what is in front of me. I check off my To Do Lists and feel good that I got done what I needed to. Yet I did not stop to think about all that I have done, why I did it, how it affected me and those around me, or what it is going to lead to. I realize that at no point did I allow myself to be still, quiet and open – mindful. And, even more, I refused to take even a moment to take the “I” out of the equation.
None of us, no matter the education, training and experience we have, can say that we really know why we are able to do what we do. This unknowing, deep connection to something larger than us is the font of our creativity. We cannot really allow that creativity to flow if we are busy doing the things we need to do or not at least trying to be mindful some of the time.
To be clear, doing nothing is not the same thing as being still, quiet and open. For me, I can mentally masturbate just about anywhere and anytime. I make mental notes, play out scenarios, think about all that is coming and ultimately try to shape my future. I can be in front of my computer or lying on the couch. It does not matter. My struggle is to ask these voices to step aside, to let what is right in front of me be what is, to be purposeful in all that I do or not do – to just be quiet.
As much as I know silence and rest is the font of creativity, it does not mean that the practice is not incredibly difficult. Why? Because it is easier to go about our day doing stuff than it is to think about the content and context of the stuff. Our rational brains want to put a rhyme and reason for what it is that we do. However, the truth is, there is no rhyme or reason but for the compelling notion that it is something you need to do.
So, to bring it to the practical, how do you answer the phone when a client calls? Your significant other? Your child? I have watched a senior investment banker I worked with talk to his son on the telephone with the same intonation and sing-song salesy pattern as he would his clients. I could only imagine how empty his son must have felt. When you send your client a hand written note that conveys your gratitude, how do YOU feel? Connection matters, intention more so.
When is the last time you allowed yourself to just take a walk, without any electronic device attached to you and no particular place to go? When is the last time you looked up and watched the clouds? Sounds hokey I know, but try it for fifteen minutes and then see what comes. Now imagine that you did it every day.
I am always amazed that I can “see” in a new way after I take the “I” out of it — when I let the silence be heard. There will always be time enough to make happen all of the things stillness creates.
