Don't Just Do Something, Sit There

Sometimes when crisis swirls and you're running around like a butchered chicken, it's good to remember this slogan: don't just do something, sit there.

I refer to it often. Many times problems will resolve themselves if you don't just do something. Furthermore, simply sitting there, even if only for five minutes, will help you get centered, gather information, and ultimately take an action that's considered and useful as opposed to hysterical and reactive.

 Reducing consumption and saving energy naturally arise from this policy. If you don't just jump up and drive your car to the store to fix your latest problem, craving or anxiety, you will save gas and resources. If you sit there and don't buy a car for a few years, you save money and reduce consumption of new cars. Sitting still is good for your psyche if you're practicing your breathing meditations; it's also free and carbon-neutral.

Comments

[Jihad Fakhreddine]

Dear Laila,

I am pleasently surprised with your blog. Saw your name on the net several months ago when I was seraching for Nabil Abu Saba. Your site was blocked.

I was studying and working in Greensboro for all of the 1980s. In fact it your uncle Seman and Nabil who got me to Greensboro in 1979. I was very fond of your late father and the ideals he stood for and his comminttment to Lebanon. I see him in you now and I am happy to learn about your interest in our homeland. And hope that are recovering healthwise. this is one of my recent articles.

http://www.gulfnews.com/opinion/columns/region/10227770.html

I live in the UAE now.

How can get in touch with Nabil?

All the best.

Jihad

[Leila Abu-Saba]

Hi Jihad - thanks for stopping by! Your email bounced - could you try again? You must have mistyped. I will forward your email to Nabil if I can get it to work!

[arduous]

I love this principle! I an going to have to refer to it often!! :)

[Leila Abu-Saba]

@Arduous - thank you - it's not original to me. Great slogan, isn't it?

[Joyce Zonana]

Hi Leila,

I love your idea that the Internet connects us to the present moment. I think it's true. I haven't been Twittering, but who knows? Anyway, I'm off tomorrow to a 10-day silent yoga retreat. I'll think of you while I'm there.

Best,
Joyce

[Sophia]

This advice comes at a good time for me. I have been checking this blog from time to time and I always find it lively and welcoming.
Thanks,
Sophia