If you’re like me, the art of doing nothing is a concept that feels impossible. I’m always, always trying to be “productive.” But last week, I got hit hard by the flu, and in the proceeding days I realized I had to do nothing (essentially) so my body could rest and rejuvenate. Here’s how to do the art of nothing – whether you’re sick or healthy!
This post is all about The Art of Doing Nothing | 5 Essential Tips To Get Started
What is the art of doing nothing?
Well, it’s pretty self-explanatory: the art of doing nothing is to set aside time to do… nothing at all! In this modern age, we should probably all find time to do less…
Lots of cultures have words specifically for the “art of doing nothing.” Personally, I love the Dutch name for it, “niksen”, which litearlly means, “to do nothing.”
The definition of niksen is perfectly encapsulated by Kevin Dickenson: “So what does count [as niksen]? Staring out the window and watching birds flit around. Enjoying the aroma of your coffee brewing in the morning. Having a pleasant daydream as you listen to music on the couch. Sitting in a cafe and watching the people pass by. It’s any “unguarded moment,” Williems writes, of “having nothing to do and not finding something new to do.”
In other words, the art of doing nothing is the opposite of being productive: there are no plans being made, no figuring out how to be secretly productive “on the side”… it’s just about being as you undertake a low effort activity like drinking coffee or listening to music.
Let’s get into some tips on how to make this happen…
1. Normalize resting
Doing nothing – actually resting your mind and body – is normal and necessary.
Practising Niksen is a good reminder that we need time in the week to just “be.”
We can’t be constantly on the go and remain healthy.
2. Schedule “doing nothing”
I always say it won’t get done unless it’s in your planner.
So, on that note, allot some time to practise the art of doing nothing. Personally, I’m trying to do this at some point between Friday afternoons and Sunday afternoons.
But choose a time slot that works for you and see if you’re able to stick with it.
3. Create boundaries with technology
It’s a lot easier to be at ease with doing nothing when your phone and laptop are tucked away.
Try and be mindful about how much time you’re using your devices. When we do this, we can practise Niksen a lot more than we realize.
Try, for example, not to pull your phone out your bag when you’re standing in line, or taking a break between emails. When we resist technology, Niksen becomes part of your daily life and not just for a few hours on a Sunday afternoon.
4. Your Niksen is personal
There is no one way to exercise the art of doing nothing.
Whatever you do to switch off, let it be your version of Niksen.
5. Be mindful of guilt
If you’re like me, you’re instantly flooded with guilt when imagining “doing nothing.”
But this is a myth. There is no reason to feel guilty about taking time to look after yourself.
If you gain nothing else but that from this post, I’ll be glad.
This post was all about The Art of Doing Nothing | 5 Essential Tips To Get Started
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