Hot Take: You have time to take a ceramics class !

I am currently exploring the construct of time.

As a culture, we collectively wish there was more of it. Cramming more into our days and encouraging discipline (ie, morning routines) as a form of optimization.

We rarely talk about how to enjoy our time more. I am leaning into this reframe. Trusting that if I prioritize moments that feed / inspire us, honor our bodies' need for rest, I will feel better, more effective, valuable, and happy (less anxious) member of society.
I wanted to touch on a few ways I have adapted to ‘buy my time back’ and share my very first Hot Take:  You have time to *take a ceramics class.

*fill in the blank :)

Subtraction—

It is a vital piece of this puzzle. Removing habits, substances, obligations, and people from my life that do not fill me up is an ongoing and powerful practice.

For me, it began with a curiosity about the joys and guilty pleasures in my life. I noticed that many of them also drained my energy, and sat with the idea of diversifying my joy, or even abstaining from ___.

You can exercise this theory by distancing yourself (rather than cutting yourself off) from known energy drains. For me, it is a mindfulness practice, rather than something to implement today/ tomorrow/ this month.

Drinking is an obvious example. It started by realizing I wasn’t having as much fun while drinking as I thought I was. The sober curious movement helped me to process this and normalize it. Over time, I reached for moderation. It meant at times opting out of social engagements, making some new friends, and often not getting the invite (that I didn’t actually want). Pregnancy and postpartum gave me a beautiful excuse to drink way less (I never abstained entirely). In recent months, when I would order a drink, craving the taste, but I was unable to finish it, and honestly, did not enjoy the tipsy feeling I was previously accustomed to. Eventually, I realized that I don’t want to partake anymore. To this day, I don’t think drinking is bad, and had I tried to quit 5 years ago, I think it would have created an unhealthy push and pull. Allowing myself to simply be curious and imagine an alternative reality has led me to this moment of clarity.

The Values Driven Gut Check—

I hear about ‘the full body yes’ a lot, but I recently learned about a quick decision-making system that helps me to implement this when making commitments in my life and business.

It essentially means taking a step back to explore if the decision aligns with your values and how it will impact your life 10 minutes from now, 10 months from now, and 10 years from now. This quick gut check has made complicated commitments crystal clear, especially as I navigate the extra logistics of parenting.

Suzy Welch developed this system and a quiz for identifying your values. You can take the quiz here.

Let it go—

A note to the things that never make it off your to-do list. Consider simply letting them go! If that doesn’t feel quite right, make a separate note of ‘someday projects’ or consider hiring help. But please find a way to free yourself.

Optimizing—

Okay, I can’t help but share my optimization tip too.

I recently switched to monthly meal planning, rather than weekly. I found the beginning of the week rolled around so quickly, I was unprepared with a plan and grocery list, which lead to eating out more. Is there a task you do regularly that can be batched?

Ask for help—

If you are a primary caregiver, I am looking at you!! Time off is so important for your brain and for your body. Finding some regular help is certainly challenging, but I assure you, it will pay off in a multitude of ways.

Two of my open studio members have young kids at home. Taking time for themselves helps to lighten the load. It is not a linear path, but it inspired me to do the same.

I am so lucky to have family around to help out with childcare during my “work” hours, but I have been really trying to expand our network of “emotionally safe” people for my daughter, so we have more space to go on dates or participate in solo extracurriculars. I have wanted to go take ceramics classes again for years, and I am doing it now!

Extra Encouragement: If you ever want encouragement here or to problem-solve this, my DMs are open.

Ask the Universe for Help—

Saving the best for last! I was recently introduced to the idea that we can and should formally ask the universe for help. As an agnostic, this hit the spot. Kate Northrup, the author of ‘Do Less’, suggests putting a column in your planner of things beyond your control.

I truly hope these reminders trigger something positive in your life. And if the moment is right for you to take a ceramics class, I have a Spring session starting on April 26th, and I would love to have you. Learn more about the program and why it is worth making time for.

Until next time,

Molly of Boda Clay