This morning, I was scrolling through Facebook and author, Margarita Engle had posted a link to an article about how the "most successful creative people constantly say no". Though I still don't know if I agree with everything in the article, I realize I personally need to say no more often and not feel guilty, even when I say "no" to things that are technically good.
This is where I struggle. Lots of things are good things. Visiting a friend, going to a movie, helping someone plan a birthday party. All good things. Yet, when I have too many evenings and too many weekends with good things, then I become stressed. Stressed that I don't have time to wash clothes and there is nothing left to wear. Stressed that I haven't gotten finished with a book I needed to review or simply stressed because I haven't had time to unwind and read.
As a child, I remembered feeling like I had too much free time. I would love to have been busy all weekend or multiple nights of the week, but as I have gotten older and time seems to disappear in a blink of an eye, I cherish quiet time, and weekends free of obligations, and staycations that afford me the luxury of ambling through the day.
What I have also noticed about that free time or space is that decisions can be made. Yes, I will take on that project because it really is something I want to do and will be a creative outlet. Or yes, participating in an activity will be a good use of time on multiple levels. It can also show me what activities my heart really isn't into and will drain me instead of bringing more energy.
At the end of this coming week, I have my spring break. I am looking forward to a couple of projects around my house, getting back into the routine of exercising, reading through at least one of my many book stacks, and trying out some new recipes. Yes, I would love to spend time with friends but I have to be careful not to create a social calendar completely at odds with some of my other goals. My friends may have to overlap with my spring break goals. I am sure that I can convince some of them that socializing while I try out a new recipe is a good idea. * smile*
Here's to learning to say "no" without guilt.
For the month of March, I will be writing and posting daily as part of the Slice of Life Challenge. Thank you to the Two Writing Teachers for hosting the March Slice of Life Challenge.