Embracing the Art of Doing Nothing

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My ultimate pleasure? Absolutely nothing. A day devoid of plans is like receiving a precious gift.

Recently, I enjoyed a week-long getaway, but my favorite day wasn’t the one spent at the beach, shopping at the outlets, or dining out. It was the rainy day I spent indoors, lost in a book and rearranging furniture. It was a day with no obligations, not dictated by the allure of a bright summer sun that lured me to the garden or the beach. With my kids away for a few days, my partner kept asking what I wanted to do. Even after three years together, he still struggles to accept that I genuinely enjoy doing nothing. In fact, it’s my preferred way to unwind.

The weather or having plans didn’t matter; I craved a day of leisure, which has become essential for me since motherhood. After four consecutive days of activities, the thought of attending a concert made my stomach churn. I longed for a day of rest. Perhaps it’s a mom thing — we seldom have time to relax, so when the opportunity arises, I seize it eagerly. Before becoming a parent, my social calendar was always full. I relished going out, hosting gatherings, and squeezing every bit of fun from vacations. I feared the silence of an empty day, thinking it would be deafening. But once I had my first child, the pressure to stay busy faded away.

As a mother, I’m constantly multitasking, always transitioning from one task to another. The moment I sit down to relax, I’m reminded of the bills I need to pay, the weeds in the garden, or the laundry waiting to be folded. I juggle keeping track of doctor appointments for the kids, ensuring they eat well before practices, monitoring grades, and managing my job, all while trying to fit in self-care. While moms can take days off work, there’s always something demanding our attention. It feels like a precarious balancing act, and it’s utterly exhausting.

Now that my kids are teenagers, I have more free moments. I could indulge in a massage or go out, yet I often choose to do nothing instead. I know I need to recharge for the busyness that will inevitably return. My mind is already occupied with tasks, which is enough reason for me to relish a blank day on my calendar. In truth, having a day to unwind is a true luxury.

Some childless friends have remarked that I seem boring or old. They don’t understand why I leave their birthday parties early or opt out of post-dinner bar outings. They think it’s sad that I find joy in curling up with a book and lighting my favorite candle on a Saturday night. Yet, since bringing three wonderful kids into this world, the demands on my time have skyrocketed. Moments when I can simply do nothing and recharge are crucial for my well-being. I’m content with the peace that comes from those quiet moments. You can enjoy the nightlife without me; I know that pushing myself would only rob me of my sanity.

Emma Carter is a freelance writer based in Maine, living with her three teenagers and their two ducks. When she’s not writing, you can find her indulging in online shopping or sipping on Coke Zero.

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In summary, the joys of doing nothing have become a cherished escape for me, especially amidst the chaos of motherhood. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best moments are those spent in quiet reflection, allowing us to recharge for the whirlwind of life ahead.