sit and stare
Hey Ya Savages,
Today, I want to talk about a revolutionary concept (not actually revolutionary at all but sometimes we forget): Sitting and Staring. No, I didn’t s,s,s stutter. I'm talking about the simple act of taking a seat, shutting the fuck up, and observing the world around you. No fancy meditation apps, no expensive retreats—just you, your surroundings, and a healthy dose of mindfulness.
In a world that's constantly screaming for our attention, taking a moment to sit and stare might seem like a waste of time. But let me tell you something, it's in those quiet moments of observation that we often find our greatest inspiration. It's where ideas brew, where clarity emerges from chaos, and where we reconnect with the essence of who we are.
I'm not saying you need to become a professional daydreamer or turn into a statue. But when was the last time you truly allowed yourself to be present, without the constant distraction of notifications, deadlines, and the relentless buzz of modern life? Embracing the art of sitting and staring (and shutting the fuck up, most importantly) isn't about being lazy or avoiding responsibility—it's about reclaiming your sanity in a world that thrives on a clusterfuck of noise.
Now, I know what you're thinking. "But Adam, I don't have time for that shit. I've got a million things to do and sitting around staring at nothing isn't gonna help me get shit done." Well, buckle up, buttercup, because I'm about to drop some truth bombs on you and they may ruffle your feathers.
Here are three reasons why you should make sitting and observing your environment a priority:
Reduce Anxiety and Stress: Studies have shown that mindfulness practices, like sitting and observing, can significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. By taking a moment to ground yourself in the present moment and simply observing your surroundings, you give your overworked brain a much-needed break from the constant chatter and worry. So next time you're feeling overwhelmed, take a seat, take a deep breath, and just fucking stare.
Increase Self-Awareness: Ever feel like you're running on autopilot, just going through the motions without really being present? Yeah, me too. But here's the thing: sitting and observing can help you snap out of that zombie-like state and become more in tune with yourself and your surroundings. When you take the time to notice the sights, sounds, and sensations around you, you become more aware of your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. And let me tell you, self-awareness is a game-changer when it comes to personal growth and development.
Find Beauty in the Ordinary: We live in a world that's constantly bombarding us with stimuli—phones buzzing, emails pinging, notifications popping up left and right. It's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle and overlook the beauty that surrounds us every day. But when you sit and observe, you give yourself the opportunity to slow down and appreciate the little things—the way the sunlight filters through the trees, the sound of birds chirping in the distance, the feeling of the breeze on your skin. that car that drove by and what color it was. Trust me, there's magic in the mundane if you take the time to look for it.
So there you have it, my fellow warriors. The next time life starts to feel like a whirlwind of chaos and stress, remember the power of sitting and staring. It may seem simple, but the benefits are profound. So grab a seat, open your eyes, and let the world unfold before you.
Keep shining.
- Adam Rudolf