“An
object in motion stays in motion...” It’s Newton’s first law: Physics 101, and
it’s on my mind this morning.
I’m
not sure about you, but I haven’t thought about physics in at least two decades.
Probably more. However, those seven words from way back when seem relevant
today, and they had me scouring the internet trying to recall what comes next.
Effectually,
the full law states that an object at rest stays at rest unless acted upon by
an unbalanced force. And an object in motion stays in motion with the same
speed and in the same direction unless acted upon by an unbalanced force.
So
what does that have to do with business or management or consulting or
anything? Well—everything.
An object at rest.
The
nature of my work is starts and stops: I’ve been going and going and going, and
now, I’m not. Honestly, the eerie silence of this calm before the next storm has
been a bit unsettling.
But
time has told me that this is a gift. So too is the space between this meeting
and the next or between today and tomorrow. Whether it’s months or minutes, making
the most of and gratefully receiving quiet times when they come can make the
difference between good and better. Rather than to fill empty spaces with more
and more doing, perhaps consider taking some time not to.
1.
Rest. In order to strengthen any muscle,
the formula is simple: exert, rest, repeat. Times of rest afford opportunity
for growth, so yes, take a lunch or take a nap (or both, perhaps).
2.
Meditate. Intentionally quieting the mind
and spirit fosters peace, clarity, focus, positivity and a host of other great
things. Just five minutes a day can do wonders.
3.
Sleep. We all know and can feel the benefits
of a good night of sleep. Further, midday naps are integral to many cultures around
the world. Why? Because sleep is awesome. It boosts memory, mood and attention.
It promotes a longer life span, increased creativity, and it can subside weight
gain and depression.
An object in motion.
The
Puget Sound near my home ceaselessly ebbs and flows; it teems with power and
life. Also in my neighborhood, the waters of a lagoon stand still. It, on the
other hand, is stagnant, stale, and it smells.
Although
stillness and adequate rest are essential to good work and good health, equally
important are movement and motion. Simply put, movement = life.
1.
Keep Going. Particularly in quieter times,
it is important to keep moving. Although
shutting down completely or throwing routine to the wind may seem enticing,
it’s not always the best idea. As anyone who has started a diet or an exercise
program – again – will tell you, it’s far easier to keep going than it is to
get going.
2.
Keep Growing. Our brains forge new pathways
and connections when we think outside of the box and experience new things. Downtime
is a great time to stretch our minds, to sharpen our tool belts and to learn
something new.
3.
Exercise. Getting outdoors and moving
our bodies is one of the very best things we can do for body, mind and spirit.
A brisk walk can decrease stress and increase productivity. Studies correlate
exercise to heightened brain functioning, better health, better sleep, better
sex, less stress, more energy, greater confidence, blah, blah, blah…
Unless acted upon.
A prospective
client called just a bit ago to ask me to begin working with her next week. I’m
busy resting, I thought, but didn’t say. Actually, I said yes.
Regardless
of your trade, occupation or social status— whether you love or you hate the
life you live and that to which you put your hand each day—the rest of Newton’s
Law matters. Unbalanced forces are everywhere, and change is inevitable. We
will act, and we will be acted upon. Projects will come and they will go. In
any case, to stay or to go requires action.
1.
Act. When inspiration, ideas and
opportunity come, act on them! Inspired action can be a game and world changer.
2.
Just say yes. Energetically, a yes is a
powerful thing. If you wish to change your circumstances and particularly if
you tend toward passivity or pessimism, learning to say yes may shift things in
a positive direction and open more doors.
3.
Balance. To change the state of a
thing, an unbalanced force is required. Homeostasis is possible, however, when we
adjust, then readjust. Yield, push back or change course when necessary. Take a
break, then get back to work.
Abi Tschetter is a Marketing
Consultant with The Odigo Group and a STOTT Pilates® Certified Instructor. She
resides on Whidbey Island with her husband and two children.
