Minimum Effort, Maximum Impact
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Now back to our scheduled programming…
I shared in a recent post that my spring cleaning this year sparked a theme that I sense is going to be very transformative. Minimum effort, maximum impact. min/max for short. :)
I’m pretty lazy, especially when it comes to housework. I like a tidy space, but don’t enjoy the work it requires, so if I can do a small thing that yields a big result, I’m all for it.
When I’m folding laundry, I do sweaters and towels first. By getting the bulky stuff out of the way, the pile is greatly reduced and thereby less intimidating.
When I’m doing bodywork or Reiki, I focus on the cause of the issue rather than the symptoms, and therefor get significantly better results for my clients.
If I’m lucky enough to get my brother’s kids on a video call, I know that if I can quickly pull up a book that has trucks, unicorns or dinosaurs (depending on the particular kid), I can keep them engaged for a much more easily than if I try to initiate conversation.
It’s all about getting the biggest return for each energy expenditure. I’m sure this concept was planted when I was studying economics in college. (Yes, I had a different life back then and a BA from NYU with a double major in German and Econ. Whacky, ja?)
There’s also a bit of “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” thinking blended in there, too. I’m all about addressing things before they become a problem. If I feel even the hint of a sore throat, I head to the medicine cabinet for some herbal potions, take some time to rest, soak in an aromatherapy bath and nurture my body back to wellness rather than pushing through and needing to miss several days of work.
I see evidence of this when I walk in the woods. The folks who tend the trails have an ingenious way of dealing with fallen trees. Rather than trying to move the whole thing and greatly disturbing the habitat and critters, they cut out a slice just large enough to clear the path. That slice then makes a lovely seat. :) So clever!
When I’m working on a project and feeling stuck, I’ve learned that if I take a break and go for a walk in those woods, my head clears, my nervous system gets soothed and often ideas begin to percolate on their own. Attempting to push through has shown me time and time again that efforting, especially when it comes to healing or creativity, is the opposite of productive.
A least once every week, my workday begins in the woods. This time is invaluable to my own wellness and translates into me being able to be of greater service to my clients. It also opens the door for inspiration, which is the ultimate min/max cultivator.
Every day begins with a ritual of devotion to myself, my well-being and my soul. This small effort sets me up for a smooth flow and greater resilience when choppy waters prevail. Eating protein at breakfast keeps my energy steady. Finishing my chores on Saturday after work makes Sunday so much more restorative. Meeting my emotions before they fester prevents blow-ups.
There are so many ways that min/max improves my life and I’m sure there are more I have yet to discover. Now that I’m onto the scent, there’s no telling what gains are to be had!
I’d love to hear your min/max strategies. I bet you have several, even if you never thought of it that way. How do you benefit from “a stitch in time saves nine” strategies?
If you’re a Reiki person, check out this blog’s new sister companion: Reiki Tribe. I’ve created a space for sharing inspiration and practices for folks who have been initiated into this amazing healing art. (Yes, I now have THREE blogs! 🤓)