Life in late capitalism can be vexing, alienating, fragmenting, and otherwise frustrating. There are many wonderful things in my life, but I'm more likely to talk about what's bad rather than what's good. I'm going to try to post one good thing here each day, and if you would join in by adding a good thing from your day in the comments, I'd love it--I'd absolutely love it. --RR
7/12: the bases strategy
Years ago I needed to find a way to balance my time during the summers, and I developed the idea of bases: every day I tried to do at least one thing in four different categories (professional, house/self, exercise, contact with the outside world). For a few summers I held myself to this plan pretty strictly. Recently I've been more flexible, though I've found that on most week-days I tend to touch all the bases without having to think about it. On days when I'm feeling a little low in spirit or otherwise aimless, returning to the bases really helps. Today was one such day, and I was grateful for the minimal structure which the bases provided. It really kept me from spinning out and down.
Oh, I think this is a grand idea! I am retired - two years- and there are days when I am at loose ends...not because I have nothing to do but just the opposite. Think I'll incorporate your technique in my days. Love that you shared this..as all your daily good things. I do so appreciate the concept.
ReplyDeleteCheers~
Hi, Honoré--Thanks for liking this idea; for me it has been so helpful. Like you said, sometimes it's a matter of having too many possibilities, and then this little bit of structure helps me to attach to particular things. I hope that you are having good days!
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