“I take big action and yet never rush.”

Reading that quote from George Thompson’s newsletter earlier this week inspired me to write about the subject.

Especially since the world is so ever-demanding for us to keep up, to be productive, to accomplish more, to buy more, etc. My question is, “How do you feel when you are always going for the next thing?” Or as Dr. Phil said years ago, “How’s that working for you?”

In Taoism, Wu Wei is a key concept. It is often translated as “doing nothing.” It is also translated as non-action, action without striving, and effortless doing.

Effortless doing.
How does one go about effortlessly doing? For me, it’s being aware of my physical and mental capacity. (The 70% rule) As well as being able to say, “no” when I am not feeling it.

Effortless doing also embraces simplicity in everything we do. Let’s partner with nature to get things done. Nature is powerful, and she gets things done with less effort. Why can’t we?

Maybe it’s because we are afraid to slow down because it has been ingrained in us to always be productive. Maybe it’s because of social media wanting us to believe everything is instantaneous — hello Instagram.

We are currently in the season of spring in the northern hemisphere. Using nature as our example, you may begin to plant seeds for your gardens. You will continue to nourish the seeds throughout spring and summer. You’ll make sure they have enough water and nutritious soil and give them a daily dose of love.

Do we go out to our seeds after a week has gone by and speak harshly towards them — asking why haven’t you broken through the soil yet? No. Because we know it takes time. The famous Tao Te Ching saying from Lao Tzu comes to mind: “Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.”

If nature takes action and is never in a rush, why can’t we? The truth is I believe we can.

• Contemplating our actions and words before we proceed
• Meditative practices (qigong, tai chi, yoga, being present with awareness)
• Connecting to nature (getting outside, even if it’s only 5 minutes)
• Leaving early to a destination—not feeling rushed or behind
• Deep breaths before we head into a meeting or a conversation
• Grounding outside barefoot (one of my favorites)
• Embrace flow instead of effort

We get things done by joining forces with nature, not controlling it. What if we applied the wisdom of Wei Wei in everything we did?

Wu Wei is an approach to life, not just another technique.

When we practice Wu Wei, we can remain calm and easy while seeking out opportunities in our work, relationships, and passions. We can choose to do it all without having to suffer the stress and anxiety associated with hard work. It also helps us find our balance, be present, and live our life to its fullest.

Remember: We can take big action without rushing — for we are nature.

PHOTO: spring in my neighborhood