willy-nilly

A photography group advised their participants to BEWARE the “Willy Nilly” approach of flitting from one subject to the next to make sure we’ve shot everything. It’s natural to feel a sense of urgency, if we don’t think we will return to a place. Rushing doesn’t allow us to explore treasures right in front of us. We leave before we’ve had a chance to dig deeper, to connect, to capture the treasures of our experiences.

I have just spent a week in “willy-nilly” land. I was rushed too and fro, running down a list that grew and finding myself back tracking the same ground. Often, I completed a task, but missed a chance to really connect with people. I marked things off my list, but didn’t savor any of it, nor did I feel rested or satisfied.

What does that mean? Merriam Webster says :in a careless and unplanned way: in a way that does not allow any choices or planning.This word was first used in 1608- example, “rushed us around willy-nilly”, or “children running about willy-nilly”.

Imagine yourself in a room full of people you’ve always wanted to meet. You only have an hour, so you rush around the room shaking everyone’s hands and introducing yourself. When the time is over, you have met many, but who do you know beyond their name? By slowing down and spending time with fewer people or pets or projects, and getting to know them, their characteristics, their essence, we may enjoy more.

Pick a place. Be present. Slow down, stay with your people, your pets or your projects and see if you aren’t better satisfied. Move with purpose & deliberation.