The painful art of not “doing something about it”
“Do something about it.”
We hold this principle so close to our hearts. As if, by doing, we are solving. And by not doing, we are complacent about the problems in our lives. All of these words that we associate with not-doing — passive, lazy, cowardly — have convinced us that not-doing is a fundamental flaw. That those who choose not to do simply don’t care. And not caring is — well, it’s terrifying. Because it’s a form of surrender.
“Do something about it” rules my life. I worship the words, obey the words. And I have always believed that they have my best interest at heart, steering me in the right direction, challenging me in healthy ways, and pushing me to grow.
But, I’m starting to notice my attachment to the words. And how this attachment accelerates my anxiety like fuel to a fire. How it creates this feeling that won’t go away, of not being good enough.
Which makes me wonder…
What if, sometimes, not-doing is actually the best thing to do?
What if, instead, not-doing can become a profound spiritual practice?
“Do something about it” is great, but it’s in fact more cowardly than not-doing. Because it’s an easy way out of the toughest work there is, which is the work of understanding why you feel compelled to “do something” in the first place.
It’s easier to keep moving than it is to plant yourself firmly in place, look yourself in the eye, and ask: What are you running from?
Surrender is a beautiful thing, but chasing has more clout. Chasing is glamorous and inspiring. Chasing is productive.
But, it’s that quiet moment between one thing and the next — the one where nothing happens, that is neither productive nor glamorous — that can tell you more about yourself than doing ever will. If you choose to listen.
