Category: Gentle

2023 Intentions

Photo of gentle clouds against a blue sky
Photo by Matt Palmer on Unsplash

I hope for more yutori in 2023.

Yutori is defined as “a state with sufficiency and ease” (source). It’s been described as a sense of spaciousness, the abilty to let time pool around you. It allows for a sense of noticing, for a gentleness in the way we interact with our surroundings.

It’s already prompted for me a reflection on my rhythms and behaviors, at home and at work. I look forward to sharing what I learn as the year progresses.

In the meantime, a few resources on the topic I’ve found worthwhile:

The structure of yutori and its functions

On Being with Krista Tippett / Discussion with Naomi Shihab Nye

On empty time and not feeling crammed (where I stumbled across the concept in the first place)

“Self-growth is tender”

Be patient with yourself. Self-growth is tender; it’s holy ground. There’s no greater investment.

Stephen R. Covey
Image by Marcus Spiske via Unsplash

Self-growth is work. It takes time, energy, focus. It can be tough, frustrating, infuriating. Progress is precarious. Backsliding, falling into old habits, coming up short – it happens. You’ll ask if the effort is worth it.

This is just a friendly reminder to be Gentle with yourself.

Be patient. Be understanding. Give yourself time and space. Because as Stephen Covey rightly observes, “There is no greater investment.”

Action:

  • When you find yourself being critical of yourself, speak to yourself like you would a good friend.
  • Celebrate succes. Focus on the progress you’ve made, not just on the way you still have to go.
  • What unrealistic expectations might you be harboring? How might you readjust your goals with more of a gentle approach?