How to Not Always Be Working

1. Redefine "Work" to Reclaim Your Life

Learning how to not always be working isn’t about working less or never working or never having a job. It’s about starting to personally determine for one’s self the concept of work.

Subjective Definition. The book challenges the conventional understanding of work, urging readers to define it personally. It emphasizes that work isn't solely about a job or income generation but encompasses any activity that feels like labor, whether paid or unpaid. This redefinition is crucial for creating healthy boundaries and preventing burnout.

Work vs. Job. The author distinguishes between "work" and "job," noting that a job might feel easy and not like work, yet still lead to burnout if not properly managed. Conversely, activities like gardening might not generate income but can feel like work. Understanding this distinction allows individuals to identify activities that drain their energy and spirit, regardless of their financial implications.

Awareness is Key. The initial step towards a healthier relationship with work is simply being aware of what constitutes work for you. This involves identifying tasks that feel challenging, draining, or obligatory, even if they are enjoyable or personally fulfilling. By recognizing these activities as "work," individuals can begin to prioritize self-care and balance in their lives.

2. Craft a Workspace That Inspires, Not Overwhelms

Again, there is no right or wrong way to inhabit your work environment. There is no wrong way to have a sacred workspace. There is only your way and that’s why we are writing, to find it and to celebrate it.

Personalize Your Space. The book emphasizes the importance of creating a workspace that resonates with your personal style and needs. Whether it's a home office, a cubicle, or a dining room table, the environment should inspire creativity and productivity without causing overwhelm. This involves incorporating elements that bring joy and comfort, such as plants, art, or crystals.

Separate Spaces. The author explores the benefits of having separate spaces for different types of work, such as an art studio, a dance studio, or an office for administrative tasks. However, she also acknowledges the practicality of using a neutral space like a dining room table, provided there are designated areas for materials and supplies. The key is to create a sense of order and purpose within the workspace.

Mobile Workspace. The book encourages readers to embrace the idea of a mobile workspace, acknowledging that inspiration and productivity can strike anywhere. Whether it's a coffee shop, an airplane, or a friend's office, the ability to work in different environments can foster creativity and prevent stagnation. The author emphasizes the importance of creating an "altar" or sacred space wherever you work, even if it's just a metaphorical one.

3. Identify What "Not Working" Truly Means to You

In considering this list, I have identified that a large part of both my “job” and my “work” is sharing many moments of my personal life, that people are drawn to my shop/artists’ residency because I share the not-so-glamorous details of bumpin’ along in my process of healing and creating and living.

Defining Boundaries. Identifying what constitutes "not working" is crucial for creating balance and preventing burnout. This involves distinguishing between activities that generate income or contribute to professional goals and those that are purely for personal enjoyment and relaxation. The author provides a list of activities that are not work for her, such as card games, eating dinner, and meditation.

Sharing vs. Privacy. The book explores the tension between sharing personal moments as part of one's work and maintaining privacy for self-care. The author acknowledges that sharing personal details can be a key aspect of her brand and business, but also recognizes the need to protect certain activities and experiences from becoming commodified. This involves consciously choosing when to share and when to keep things private.

Morning and Evening Rituals. The author emphasizes the importance of establishing rituals that separate work from personal time. This includes a strict "No Phone Before Ten A.M." rule and a nighttime ritual that involves powering down completely. These rituals create clear boundaries between work and rest, allowing for greater mindfulness and presence in both areas of life.

4. Navigate the Gray Areas with Intention

When work begins to get in the way of balance, a radical notion of self-care, you may need a more thorough visual of what your work is.

Blurred Lines. The book acknowledges that the line between work and leisure can often be blurred, particularly for those who turn their passions into professions. Activities like knitting or going to the beach can be both personally fulfilling and part of one's brand or business. Navigating these "gray areas" requires intention and awareness.

Mindful Sharing. The author suggests that one way to manage the gray areas is to choose things to keep private. This involves consciously deciding not to share every project or experience on social media, allowing for a greater sense of personal satisfaction and simplicity. The key is to avoid turning every aspect of life into content for consumption.

Clear Intentions. The book emphasizes the importance of setting clear intentions for how you want to work and live. This involves defining your values, prioritizing your well-being, and making conscious choices about how you spend your time and energy. By aligning your actions with your intentions, you can navigate the gray areas with greater clarity and purpose.

5. Conquer Phone Addiction to Reconnect with Life

A large part of my ability to cut down on working has come from understanding my addiction to my phone. Yes, I said it: addiction to the phone. Escapism through the phone.

Phone as Distraction. The book identifies phone addiction as a major obstacle to achieving work-life balance. The author acknowledges that the phone can be a source of both connection and distraction, often serving as a means of escaping from inner turmoil or obsessing over work. Overcoming this addiction is crucial for reclaiming time and attention.

Strategies for Overcoming Addiction:

• App Removal: Deleting social media apps to limit access.
• Flip Phone: Experimenting with a basic phone to reduce digital distractions.
• Phone Box: Designating a physical space to store the phone during focused work or relaxation periods.
• App Restrictions: Using apps to monitor and limit phone usage.

Mindful Usage. The author emphasizes the importance of developing a mindful relationship with the phone, recognizing its potential for both connection and isolation. This involves setting boundaries, establishing phone-free periods, and consciously choosing when and how to engage with technology. The goal is to use the phone as a tool, rather than allowing it to control your life.

6. Embrace Breaks as Essential, Not Optional

Exploring the idea of a healthy break has become so important to me. It could look different for each individual person.

Breaks as Fuel. The book challenges the notion that breaks are a luxury or a sign of laziness, arguing that they are essential for maintaining productivity and well-being. Breaks allow for mental and physical rejuvenation, preventing burnout and fostering creativity. The author emphasizes that a healthy break can look different for each individual.

Movement and Stillness. The author explores various ways to take a break, including stretching, light movement, yoga, and making a meal. She notes that even activities that are part of her work, such as dancing, can provide a break from the more administrative aspects of her career. The key is to find activities that feel restorative and enjoyable.

Planning for Breaks. The book suggests incorporating breaks into your daily routine by laying out a yoga mat or preparing a snack in advance. This makes it easier to take a break when needed, without having to expend extra energy or decision-making. The author also emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between different types of breaks, such as fifteen-minute breaks, hour-long breaks, and full days off.

7. Cultivate Self-Compassion: There's No Messing Up

There is no messing up; there is only shifting and rearranging.

Embrace Imperfection. The book encourages readers to cultivate self-compassion and embrace the idea that there is no such thing as messing up. Instead, mistakes and setbacks are viewed as opportunities for shifting and rearranging, for learning and growing. This mindset allows for greater resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges.

Honesty and Openness. The author suggests that when things get clunky or mistakes are made, it's important to be honest and open about what happened. This involves communicating with customers or clients, making amends when necessary, and creating clarity where there is vagueness. The key is to avoid hiding or ignoring problems, but rather to address them with transparency and integrity.

Personal Manifesto. The book encourages readers to create a personal manifesto that reflects their values, goals, and aspirations. This manifesto serves as a reminder of what is important and helps to guide decisions and actions. The author emphasizes the importance of noticing and celebrating accomplishments, rather than judging or criticizing oneself.

8. Acknowledge and Address Your Anxieties

Anxiety and fear keep us alive—as humans and as artists. I like to look at emotions head-on and figure out why I feel them and where those feelings are coming from.

Herbal Remedies. The author shares her personal experience with using herbal infusions to manage anxiety and adrenal fatigue. She highlights the benefits of nettle and oatstraw infusions for calming the nervous system and restoring depleted adrenals. She also mentions the use of lemon balm tincture for easing morning anxiety.

Financial Clarity. The book emphasizes the importance of financial clarity for reducing anxiety and preventing overwork. This involves being aware of income and expenses, seeking help when needed, and avoiding vagueness in financial matters. The author suggests that financial anxiety often stems from a lack of clarity and control.

Reframing Negative Thoughts. The book provides strategies for reframing negative thoughts and practicing self-acceptance. This involves challenging negative self-talk, replacing it with more positive and empowering statements, and focusing on self-care and self-compassion. The goal is to create a more supportive and nurturing inner dialogue.

9. Find Joy and Lightness in the Everyday

It’s all work, always. So it’s not about never working or working less or making no money or getting rich. What I am attempting to research and discover is how to forgive myself when I become undisciplined and how to keep trying when I make a mistake or don’t meet my own expectations.

Non-Isolation. The book emphasizes the importance of connection and community for maintaining joy and lightness. This involves spending time with friends, engaging in shared activities, and seeking support from others. The author notes that isolation can exacerbate feelings of pain and overwhelm.

Gratitude and Service. The author suggests writing gratitude lists as a way to shift perspective and cultivate a sense of appreciation for the good things in life. She also emphasizes the importance of being of service to others, offering help and support to those in need. These practices help to keep things light and prevent dwelling on negative thoughts.

Embrace Imperfection. The book encourages readers to embrace imperfection and let go of the need to be perfect. This involves forgiving oneself for mistakes, celebrating small wins, and focusing on the process rather than the outcome. The author emphasizes that it's all about noticing, paying attention, and making conscious choices about how to live one's life.

Last updated: February 21, 2025