Why Slowing Down is Important for Every Personality Type
Why Slowing Down is Important for Every Personality Type
In today’s fast-paced world, “busyness” is praised and if we’re honest, we all seem to be running around like chickens with our heads cut off! From one calendar commitment to the next, we literally fill every minute on our calendar with productivity. While there’s nothing wrong with living a full, productive life, proactively choosing to slow down amidst the chaos has an endless list of benefits. From enhanced creativity, more peace, and improved moods to better overall well-being, the list truly goes on and on.
I witnessed this firsthand during my recent ten-day trip to Italy. If you’ve ever visited Europe, you probably notice the slower pace of living. Long “lunches” and less buzzing from one place to the next is the name of the game…and honestly? The benefits shine through the people in these countries. They seem happier, more fulfilled, and overall just…BETTER.
Sometimes the idea of rest and rejuvenation sounds nice, but it's hard to really know HOW to do it. So in the spirit of slowing down a bit more, here are a few practical things you can put into practice to help you live a more abundant life! In an effort to help you really apply these things, there is a journal prompt included with each factor as well!
REST. How do YOU rest? This looks different for everyone. Some of us need to ask our spouse to be on kid duty one morning so we can not set an alarm clock for once and get some much-needed extra zzz’s. Others would benefit tremendously from turning cell phones off and being immersed in nature. Maybe for you, it’s carving out an afternoon to read or journal. We are all uniquely wired, and the way we find TRUE rest follows suit!
The most difficult part of actually resting is intentionally planning for it. Again, our calendars are jam-packed, so if we’re not just as disciplined with planning rest as we are with our daily exercise or work obligations, we simply won’t do it. Further, planning ahead for when you’ll find true rest will equip you to begin preparing your mind for that time. AKA - if you know it’s coming, you can start turning that crazy brain off 😊
How are you planning to REST this summer?
CREATE. Did you know that by working with our hands, we activate different areas of the brain and stimulate our creativity? Allowing ourselves to create offers a unique way to slow our minds and connect with parts of ourselves that we “miss” in the hustle and bustle of life. What I love most about creating is that it allows us to focus on the process rather than the outcome.
Hands-on activities like drawing, painting, stitching, etc offer a break from the digital overload that has become pervasive in our lives. They provide an opportunity to disconnect from screens and engage with the physical world around us. By immersing ourselves in the texture, colors, and materials of our creative projects, we can experience a deep sense of grounding and reconnect with our senses!
Can you tell how much I love this one? Well, I love it SO MUCH that I now offer custom packages to help groups create in fun and collaborative ways. When you book a Lucy’s Inspired Workshop, you’ll take the guesswork out of crafting unique art like hats, jewelry, paintings, and more - and simply enjoy a time of creating. Click here to learn more / book your workshop!
How will you incorporate CREATING into your summer schedule?
CONNECT. Deep connection is one of the most impactful ways we can truly invite a slower pace into our lives. Similar to the other factors shared in this blog, the ways we connect differ for each of us as unique people!
And can I let you in on something? Much like the point made above about creating, connection often first requires disconnecting. What I mean is that in order for us to really connect with each other, nature, or whatever else makes us feel grounded…we must first disconnect from the everpresent distractions that surround us like cell phones, email, etc. Simply put? You won’t notice the patch of vibrant wildflowers that just bloomed if your eyes are glued to your phone. You won’t recognize the joy or sorrow in a friend’s voice if you’re constantly checking your Apple watch during a coffee date.
How can you disconnect to connect on a deeper level this summer?
The world may celebrate speed and constant busyness, but it is crucial for us all, no matter our personality type, to not only recognize but EMBRACE the importance of slowing down.
I’d love to know - which one of these resonates with you most? Let me know in the comments below, or drop me a DM @lucysinspired!
PS - you can also see real photos from recent workshops I’ve hosted on Instagram! Check it out by clicking here!
