I dropped a Crock-Pot(炖锅) on my bare feet. More accurately, I slipped down the back steps of our house on a rainy night while carrying a Crock-Pot. Consequently, my feet got hurt, for which I had to wear slip-on house shoes instead of traditional footwear.
From then on, my daily routine slowed to a crawl because I had to walk at a snail's pace. And I had to cancel unimportant outings and appointments. At first, I hated the interruption in my plans but I soon realized my injury had given me a gift: spare time. I rediscovered long-forgotten joys I'd thrown aside because I was too busy for such "luxuries". I read a book for pleasure. I spent time in silence. I experimented with my watercolor set. And my spirit came alive again.
I had been living at such a crazy pace for so long: get up early, bury myself in my tasks at work, do housework, and collapse in the evening with no recollection of what I'd actually done in the past twelve hours. When I was forced to slow down, I realized how unhealthy my life-style had been. Something had to change, or I'd suffer from the consequences.
Finding a healthier balance has been an ongoing process, and now I've been able to see improvement. I've stopped filling my schedule with back-to-back meetings and obligations. I try to leave some margin(余地) in my time so I can breathe and think. I pay attention to my emotions especially those that tell me I "should" do something. Overall, I make time for the activities that bring me joy.
That encounter makes me realize the importance of slowing down and living with purpose. I make sure my schedule isn't overloaded. I remember to ask for help when I need it.
