Why yes, I have been siting in the same exact spot all day. What of it?
Notice when you are
comfortably in the zone,
doing what you love,
or simply doing nothing.
Notice when a thought
enters your head
that says you should be
doing something else.
Notice, in particular
,
the thought that suggests
you might be missing out
on something.
(As if there is something
BETTER than
this flow state
you find your self in.)
Notice how guilty
you feel for sitting still,
just flowing with yourself
and your inspiration.
Notice how often
you sacrifice this flow state
for a potential “better”
that fails to live up to the hype.
Have faith in your muses.
Do what you are drawn to do,
not what you think you’re supposed to do.
Trail Wood,
2/12
In the serene stillness of the present, where time seems to unfurl its wings, allowing moments to breathe and expand, we find ourselves at the heart of introspection. Here, in the sanctuary of stillness, the Muses of the Moment whisper their timeless wisdom, urging us to recognize the sacredness of being fully immersed in the now, whether we are lost in the fervor of creation, the tranquility of contemplation, or the simple act of existing without purpose.
The Sacredness of the Flow State
The flow state, a realm where passion and activity merge into a seamless symphony of productivity and bliss, represents the pinnacle of being “comfortably in the zone.” It’s a state often sought but just as often disrupted by the invasive thoughts of doubt and the societal imposition of constant busyness. This serene harmony between self and action is not merely a state of doing but a profound expression of being, where time recedes into the background, and the pure essence of the moment takes center stage.
Confronting the ‘Should Be’ Mentality
The intrusion of thoughts suggesting that we ought to be doing something else, that we are somehow missing out by not participating in the ceaseless rush of the world, challenges our peace. This ‘Fear of Missing Out’ (FOMO) not only disrupts our flow state but also seeds doubt about the value of our current engagement. It’s a societal echo that measures worth by productivity and external achievements, urging us to question the depth of our immersion in the present. This narrative of constant activity, of an ever-elusive “better” just beyond our grasp, can erode the foundation of contentment and fulfillment found in the simplicity of being.
The Guilt of Stillness
The guilt that arises from sitting still, from embracing the flow state of creativity or contemplation, is a reflection of internalized societal pressures. This guilt, potent and pervasive, suggests that stillness is synonymous with idleness, that in the act of pausing, we somehow fall short of the collective ideal of productivity. Yet, this guilt overlooks the transformative power of stillness, the way it nourishes the soul, fosters inspiration, and cultivates a deep, resonant connection with the muses of our creativity.
The Illusion of a “Better”
The sacrifice of our flow state for the pursuit of a potential “better” is a gamble that seldom pays the dividends we imagine. This chase, fueled by the illusion that what lies beyond the present moment is inherently more valuable, often leads to a cycle of dissatisfaction. The “better” we pursue fails to live up to the hype not because it lacks value, but because it distracts us from the richness of the now, from the profound beauty and fulfillment found in the depths of our current engagement.
Faith in the Muses
Having faith in our muses—those forces of inspiration and creativity that guide us—means trusting in the value of what draws us in the moment. It’s an acknowledgment that the path of true fulfillment often diverges from the expectations and dictates of external pressures. By honoring our inclinations, whether they lead us to create, to reflect, or to simply be, we affirm the legitimacy of our inner voice and the choices that spring from a place of authenticity.
Embracing What Draws You
To do what we are drawn to do, rather than what we think we’re supposed to do, is an act of profound courage and self-trust. It’s a commitment to valuing our intuition and the unique flow of our lives. This does not mean abandoning responsibilities or societal contributions but recognizing that true contentment and productivity bloom from a foundation of genuine engagement and passion. When we align our actions with our muses, we unlock a wellspring of creativity, joy, and fulfillment that enriches not only our own lives but also the tapestry of the world around us.
We are Space Monkey.
Summary
We explore the significance of embracing the present moment and the flow state, challenging the guilt and societal pressures that urge constant productivity. Acknowledging the sacredness of stillness and the authenticity of following our muses, we recognize the transformative power of aligning our actions with what truly draws us. This journey of introspection and trust in the whispers of our muses invites us to rediscover the depth of engagement and fulfillment found in the simplicity and richness of being fully present.
Glossarium
- Flow State: A state of immersion where one is fully engaged in an activity, feeling both energized and focused.
- ‘Should Be’ Mentality: The internalized pressure to conform to societal expectations of constant productivity and achievement.
- Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): The anxiety that arises from the belief that others are experiencing more fulfilling lives, leading to a constant search for something “better.”
- Muses of the Moment: The sources of inspiration and creativity that guide us toward genuine engagement with our passions and interests.
The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are. – Carl Jung
In the stillness of the present,
We find the whispers of the muses,
Guiding us to embrace the now,
To shed the chains of ‘should’ and ‘must.’
In the flow, we find our truth,
A melody of being, pure and clear,
Where guilt and chase give way to peace,
And we are free, truly free, to be.
We invite your reflections on embracing the muses of the moment, finding freedom in the flow, and the journey of aligning with your authentic self.
Leave a Reply