I spent last week visiting friends and family in Missouri. My only real intention was to create some space for my mind to wander. I didn’t do much research into what there was to do and see. I just wanted to see what the day would bring.
On Sunday, we met with Josh Bulloc and he really made me think about how I want to define my work. I left that meeting full of ideas and hope that I can make it happen.
On Monday, We met with James and Julie Dibben for brunch and had a delightful conversation where I walked away even more hopeful. I think we all left the table more inspired to make a difference in the world. You can look forward to a revival of the Blue Collar Living Podcast after Christmas. If you are interested in business, it’s probably worth your time to listen to the Blue Collar Business Podcast as well.
The rest of the week was spent with my sister and her family. In the last 4 years, they have lived in Germany, Hawaii, and now in Missouri. They have some worldly experience that I’ll never have. I also got to spend some time with my 2 1/2 year old niece. She’s older than my girl, Samantha, would be, but it was still cool to spend time with a little girl and imagine what it would be like if she was mine.
We had plenty of time to think and explore. The results of this break from “normal” work was a huge boost in creativity. I have several pages in my little notebook that I carry around full of new ideas. That little break from my routine allowed me to look at similar circumstances in new and exciting ways. The freedom I had during this week really made me realize how conformed my existence is. This needs to change. I need the freedom to spend time with people when the opportunity arises. I need to build on creativity when it strikes.
Take time regularly to rest and the creativity will seep out of you. It’s worth it!
When and where can you create space to rest your mind? Do you need to wake up a little bit earlier and read, pray, or just be? Can you spend some of your lunch break in thought? What if you took the long way home to decompress? Try it and see how creative you really are!