Wednesday, January 15, 2014

on mundane tasks


Something I've noticed lately that I don't want to forget: It is when I am doing the most mundane tasks required of me (like vacuuming or folding laundry or putting clean sheets on beds) that I receive the most inspiration. This is when I finally feel the answer I've been seeking, or the confirmation that a decision I've made is correct, or when I think to email a friend. From little things to big, the inspiration comes when my mind is quiet and my hands are busy. It doesn't happen nearly as often if I have music playing, or a show on the iPad, or if I am in front of the computer. I am convinced that multi-tasking kills inspiration dead. It is quiet, steady work that does the trick for me. I want to remember this because those mundane tasks never seem very attractive in the moment. They are usually the last things on my list that I want to do, but they are so important! Not only because they make our home run more smoothly, but because my spirit needs their repetitive, simple nature to feel the stirrings that are so easily lost in the bustle of my everyday.

9 comments:

  1. Yes! This is exactly something that I've noticed here lately also. Another thing I've notice is that it helps my memory :) I know that sounds funny, but recently I've noticed that I am horrible about remembering to do certain things, but when I stay busy with these everyday tasks and stay away from the tv and computer, I seem to remember all that I need to do.

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  2. Beautiful. Thank you for these simple reminders of the joy and fulfillment that comes from doing things that aren't flashy or loud and that don't draw a crowd. I am inspired always by this blog and the refreshing pace of your life.

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  3. I wholeheartedly agree! I heard of your blog from Sarah at Clover Lane and I'm grateful for your wisdom and inspiration. Thank you!

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  4. You know how I feel about the effect of all that music all the time on my own spirituality. But our Stake Conference Sunday our president talked about how important the small and repetitive tasks are for us. Prayer, scriptures, Fhe, making the bed. They are all important and small spiritual things in my book : )

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  5. so so true. why i love spending time ironing. but showers are my ultimate writing zone - i have to run out and write down the perfect chapter opening or phrase or whatever i thought up in the shower for my thesis ;)

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  6. That's a great insight. It's so hard to get a way from multi tasking, but you're right, I don't get the quality focus or time to reflect. I'm learning to make more of an effort to focus. So many details in keeping up with life, deep cleaning, regular cleaning, kids, cooking and life. All the time for reflection...

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  7. OOOhhh that bedding is dreamy! Where is it from?!

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    Replies
    1. hi kelsey. it's from pottery barn, honestly like 14 years ago. :)

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