I think it is an undeniable reality that the pace of life we lead, wherever we are in the world, is frenetic. Stress is one of the aspects that guides our lives, and we have neglected mental health care in a dynamic that is oriented towards producing results, forgetting the intermediate process. Faced with this situation, psychologists are trying to help by proposing different methods to slow down this tendency towards multitasking and productivity above all else, which is only succeeding in developing levels of anxiety that are incompatible with well-being, as puttering.
One of the tools that seems to be in vogue lately is “puttering.” More than a tool, it is a lifestyle in which a few minutes a day are set aside to do activities calmly, enjoying the process regardless of the outcome. It can be something as simple as taking a walk, making coffee, or watering the plants.
Are We Losing the Balance in a Multitasking World?
In a world that seems to be spinning faster and faster, we are unable to escape this frenetic pace. Instead, we are allowing ourselves to be swept along by it, without considering the consequences. Stress and anxiety have become our constant companions, and we have almost normalized their presence. We are multitasking humans, focused on results-oriented production rather than enjoying the process (or anything in general). Could it be that we have reached a point where we are unable to maintain emotional balance? I personally believe so.
Psychology to the rescue
Although many may consider it trivial or not even take it seriously, psychology can shed some light on the matter. Understanding our behavior or how to redirect it are just some of the things it can do for us. Psychology and common sense both tell us that we need to slow down and learn to face daily life from a different perspective, perhaps one that is healthier for our physical and mental health.
Puttering
Although I am a staunch defender of psychology and its tools, I must also say that every time a new term related to well-being comes out, I start to tremble. For many, it is more of a marketing strategy and a new sales pitch for emotional coaches. This is what is happening with the new term “puttering.” What is this?
It could be explained as doing things without rushing. Carrying out rather pleasant activities, calmly, without thinking about the result, but focusing on the process. Paying attention only to the sensations that the task provokes in us, rather than the result itself. It refers to any type of activity: watering the plants, making coffee, going for a walk. Any activity that we find pleasant to do calmly, without paying attention to anything else.
Where to start?
Introducing this type of dynamic into daily life is simple, but it takes more effort than we think. By letting ourselves be carried away by inertia, we have reached a point where we have to organize and find time in our schedules to relax. So, if you want to start practicing “puttering,” or simply devote some time each day to being calm, here are some tips. Put technology aside; no computers, cell phones, tablets, or televisions.
No screens that are a distraction, as the goal is to focus on calmness, without interruptions. Spend 20 to 30 minutes doing a gentle task that doesn’t require a lot of effort and where the result doesn’t matter. You can do this at the end of your working day or before leaving home, to start the day calmly. Another helpful tip is to keep your home or space tidy and uncluttered, which will help to convey calm, tranquility, and peace on a mental level. It’s about incorporating into our minds the need to take care of our mental health.