This week's genius hour focus: how to avoid rebellion. Most of us are on spring break. This is the first time I have ever taken a spring break. We are in Destin, Florida and this picture is what I am looking at right now. I thought it was fitting that our professor chose "avoiding rebellion" as our topic this week, as I am in this beautiful vacation spot and need to work on my writing as part of my passion, and not a hassle.
We drove on Friday, so in the car, I was able to write and dedicate time to my passion project but it was NOT like the time I am used to. Examples of rebellion: my husband slamming on the brakes and yelling at the drivers in front of us, my comfort level with my journal and my passenger seat, and of course, "Mom, I need juice!" Sometimes I would ask everyone to quiet down so I could focus. Other times, I gave into the rebellion and closed the journal. On the first day in the gorgeous backdrop, I was able to sit on the porch by myself and write. That was relaxing and I got some good material down. We will see how the week continues, I am hoping for some time to myself to write and enjoy the scenery.
How do we curb rebellion? I think it is all in your mindset and your communication skills. You have to have the mindset that your time to yourself is as valuable as your time given to others. Our time alone, allows us to reflect, and be better people to those around us. The second part is that we often have to find a way to gently communicate to loved ones that we need that time to ourselves. Sometimes, it is hard for others to understand that concept when many of us (especially teachers, it's in our blood!) put others' needs in front of our own. So, I try to mention to my kids and husband that I will be writing now, or I am going to need some time for myself now and that works. If I just peace out to my room (or my gorgeous sunny patio) by myself for 30 mins, they wonder where I am and why I am not with them. I find that communication is key for curbing rebellion. It allows everyone to grow in the concept that individualization adds to the community.
Wow, this sounds like the perfect place to spend your time writing. I am so glad you were able to get some time alone on the porch. I agree that communication is key. I am so glad you are able to express your needs to your family during this vacation.
ReplyDeleteHi, Erin! Thanks for sharing this lovely view. I hope that you continue to communicate the need for those sacred quiet minutes for your passions/projects. Also, thanks for sharing the poignant words on how to push past rebellion (especially "individualization adds to the community"!). The commitment to personal pursuits is tricky and definitely something I am still working on, so I appreciate your perspective. If I may ask, how did you build to that that gentle communication with your kids? I find it hard to carve out space for that independent time (though that could just be situational with the age of kids...maybe we'll get there soon? ;)). Enjoy the rest of the week off!
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ReplyDeleteErin, doesn't it feel great to get away, especially this school year? I give you kudos for attempting to write on your car ride to Florida. I have taken road trips with small children back in the day (my boys are now teenagers), but I know the struggle is real. Your vacation destination is beautiful and so conducive for writing. I'm glad you found time to yourself. You are SO right about mindset and communication. Without either, we are fighting against ourselves and our other "roles" (mom, wife, teacher, friend). Everyone, even kids, benefit from alone time to reflect, download, recharge, daydream...to be our best selves to others. Good luck on the drive home. Can you schedule some of that "me" time to write once you get back home as part of a routine perhaps? I would love to read some of your work if you are sharing. :)
DeleteI bet it was difficult to stick with the writing when those distractions came up! I thought it was awesome that you told your family to pipe down when you needed it, because it's important that others begin to allow you that space for yourself. That is especially hard for kids and spouses to do. I hope you've enjoyed your break and come back to reality ready to face the final stretch!
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