Episode 04: Momentum

As I think back over the years of my life, I reflect on the concept of momentum. According to Merriam-Webster, momentum means a strength or force gained by motion or by a series of events.

A strength or force. The concept of momentum combined with the speed and pace at which life moves, perpetuates a perceived requisite to constantly be in motion. Motion builds momentum, momentum facilitates progress. Momentum is an indication that something is happening. It helps us move from one place to the next. And I think as humans, we overtime have come to crave motion and momentum. A necessity to productivity. We fill our days, hours, minutes with activities, to-do lists, plans, logistics, stuff. Then, we ask ourselves, what’s next? It feels damn near impossible to slow down or stop. Don’t break the momentum.

The notice, be curious, listen pillars I wrote about in the first post are the product of an increasingly profound appreciation for rest - for slowing down - for the power that lives in the absence of motion, in stillness. It is enriching. It is nourishing. And when you think about it, innovation and creativity are often birthed from boredom. From the slowing down and quieting of the mind.

Like waves in the ocean, the ocean is both deeply calming and an ever-powerful force. It ebbs and flows. There are moments of stillness, then it builds, it surges. The crashing of waves breaking at shore. The ocean is no less powerful when it is calm - when it is still. Rather, the calmness is its strength and is necessary to the building of its momentum - its force.

Be still. Rest. Remember that there is strength in stillness.

Momentum - a strength or force gained by motion or by a series of events, and rest.