In Italy, there is a powerful mindset, the ‘Dolce far niente’ or ‘the sweetness of doing nothing’.
And although we would love to be like Julia Roberts, indulging in this philosophy like in the film Eat Pray Love, somehow in our culture we have associated being busy as something good, which is rewarded. On the contrary, if we spend some time relaxing or resting, we are invaded by guilt.
In the book, The Burnout Fix, the psychologist and coach, Jacinta Jimenez, explores how having moments of rest and pause are essential for sustained success in a hyper-connected and stimulated world of work.
How can we turn these insights into action? By enjoying these three practices…
1) Silence
This practice consists of interacting with technology more effectively. The invitation here is to audit how you use your cell phone for a week. Do you ever turn it off? Do you use it when you are with friends and family? Where do you charge it? Approach this experiment from a place of curiosity and decide which of these habits you want to maintain, change or eliminate to help you feel more grounded and connected.
2) Sanctuary
This practice invites us to connect with nature. There is scientific evidence that contemplating nature reduces our cortisol, strengthens our immune system and improves our moods and our ability to focus. In the next few days, enjoy a walk outside or bring some flowers or plants home. Smelling some essential oils and listening to natural sounds also helps!
3) Solitude
This practice consists of spending time with yourself and permitting yourself to slow down. Doing a little introspection will improve your self-awareness, and increase your creativity and clarity. Journaling, meditating or taking deep breaths between meetings are great ways to enjoy some me-time.
Feeling inspired? Download my Leisure Planning Worksheet and start planning your free time!
Try living the ‘Dolce far niente’ over the next bank holiday. You deserve to enjoy small or great moments of rest that make you feel more aligned and restored!
This article was written by Lorena Carrasco, organisational psychologist and career coach, co-founder and CEO at Ñustas. Lorena created Ñustas to provide empathetic, research-based and actionable learning and development solutions for women’s career advancement. You can get in touch with Lorena via LinkedIn and at www.nustas.com.
April 25, 2022
