Taking time to “just be” is a challenge for many people I know. Truth is, it has been a lifelong journey for me. I have struggled big time with the concept. I get so busy doing that I often lose track of the balance needed between doing and being. The fact is we are human beings not human doings, even though many of us run from one thing to another daily, managing schedules and to do lists that are jammed packed. Can you identify with me?
My husband Steve and I have worked on developing a Japanese garden, or what I like to call a Zen Garden that starts right outside our living room window. We decided to put a stone that says “Just Be” front and center. This morning when I looked outside my window into the garden and saw that sign, my soul knew exactly what this month’s blog needed to be. Hopefully the following statements will remind each of us how important just being is as we think about the much-needed balance between doing and being.
Just be still—every moment of pause we take is restorative.
Just be kind—to yourself, especially when depleted/exhausted.
Just be present—with your own heart and your own needs before giving more to others.
Just be honest—with yourself and honor your needs.
Just be quiet—take a break from your brain chatter so you can hear your heart. It knows the way.
Just be open—to receiving from others, not just giving all of the time.
Just be enough—as you are, without having to prove yourself. Embrace yourself wholeheartedly.
Just be rested—take time to rest and recharge because fatigue is not helpful.
Just be holistically nourished—mind, body and spirit—through mental health initiatives, food, and connection.
Just be held—by the people and practices that ground you into your being.
Just be gentle—with your mistakes, your limits, and your humanity.
Just be authentic—be you, beautiful you.
Just be in awareness—about what is working and not working in your life. Take action to change what is not working.
Just be grateful—for all things, even difficulties and challenges that come up in life.
Just be love—approach all aspects of life from the space of love.
Just be brave/courageous—not by doing more, but by knowing when to slow down. Take the action needed to slow down.
Just be a human being—embrace your humanity.
Just be centered—and grounded in your values.
Just be reflective—take a moment to notice how far you have come over the years.
Just be compassionate—especially toward yourself.
Just be connected—reach out to others, ask for the support you need, remember you are not meant to carry it all alone.
Just be playful and spontaneous—laughter is good medicine too.
Just be creative—let joy and expression refuel your inner fire.
Just be clear about personal boundaries—saying no is sometimes the most healing choice.
Just be forgiving—release any and all guilt that weighs down your heart. Exercise self-forgiveness too.
Just be curious—about what your heart is really craving then take action.
Just be faithful—to your own wellness as fiercely as you are to your calling/purpose.
Just be inspired—by the quiet moments of purpose in your day.
Just be light—you don’t have to carry the world to make a difference. Let your own light guide yourself on what is necessary to refuel.
This list encourages all of us in healthcare to pause, reflect and refuel by embracing the art of just being in our efforts to better balance between doing and being. We must take time to nourish our whole selves through mind, body and spirit initiatives, taking time to rest, connect and caring for ourselves.
What “just be” statements would you add to this list? I would love to hear your thoughts.
I challenge you to take several moments a day to JUST BE…
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Contact me:
chartline@rwhc.com
608-644-3235
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Cella Janisch-Hartline, RN, BSN, PCC Professional Certified Coach, Nursing Leadership Senior Manager for Rural Wisconsin Health Cooperative has been involved in various healthcare industry leadership positions for the past 40 years. The majority of her career has been spent working in an acute care critical access facility for nearly 25 years. Throughout her work experience, she has learned most of her leadership skills and techniques through the school of “hard knocks”. Cella’s passion for teaching leadership tips and techniques earned her the 2018 Outstanding Educator Award through the National Rural Health Association. She is well-known for her humorous, engaging and personable facilitation style. |