I was gathering fabric together today to send to sweet Rebecca who is collecting it and making clothing for the people of Haiti. {They are in need of more fabric, so if you'd like to contribute, go here}
While going through my fabric stash, I realized another less than helpful way of thinking that I have a habit of employing: all or nothing thinking. For example, as I sorted, I was looking at each piece and thinking, "will I use this? will I miss this?" etc. and with some fabrics I had a hard time deciding. That's when I realized, it doesn't have to be all or nothing. I can keep a small piece for myself in case I might use, and donate the rest. Once I let go of the all or nothing concept, I was able to move a lot faster, no longer weighted down by making what felt like such a big commitment. The contribution pile grew larger as well.
I recognize that I use this type of thinking in other parts of my life as well; housekeeping, assignments, packaging orders etc. I'm going to work on thinking bit by bit vs. all or nothing. I'm betting I'll feel a lot less "stuck" when doing so. Of course, the bits can eventually turn into cleaning the whole house, completing an entire assignment, or shipping all the orders, but I'm betting it won't feel as overwhelming to begin the process. A simple shift in perspective. I'm sure it will help.
I do that, too! I totally do the all or nothing thinking! I get overwhelmed and feel stuck. Thanks for this idea. How did I not think of this? Bit by bit... :)
Michelle
Posted by: Michelle | February 10, 2012 at 06:26 PM
Oh Pam, it is so nice to hear that someone else suffers from "all or nothing" thinking. It's good to know that I am not the only one!
xo
jeanne
Posted by: Jeanne | February 10, 2012 at 06:41 PM
Oh my gosh!! I thought I was the only one. My husband certainly doesn't understand. I'm so glad that someone else feels the same way, sorry that you do but, it's nice to know I'm not alone.
thank you for sharing, it means so much
xoxo
cari B.
Posted by: Cari Bruno | February 10, 2012 at 10:51 PM
Pam thank you so much for this insight because i have the exact same attitude as yourself and it can be very paralyzing and frustrating.
Posted by: Kelly Anne | February 11, 2012 at 04:29 AM
boy-oh-boy Pam- with the last 2 posts, I think you are in my head :) !
Tracy
Posted by: tracy b | February 11, 2012 at 06:51 AM
I too have this way of thinking. It's so funny to hear of others having it too.
Keep inspiring us with your blog, you rock girl!!
Creatively
Tammie Moore
Posted by: badbeadgirl | February 11, 2012 at 11:23 AM
Your essay is so well written and exposes me to a new revelation of what has been tying me down so much! Thank you and all who have posted, I am so sorry that we have this in common, but I am also glad that I am not alone in this.
Susan t.
Posted by: Susan Thompson | February 11, 2012 at 03:31 PM
Smart thinking.....we could all use that:D
Posted by: lindaharre | February 12, 2012 at 08:18 AM
smart girl. xo
Posted by: Tammy Gilley | February 13, 2012 at 03:18 PM
you know, i get stuck on that too. especially when trying to start something. lately i've been just trying to "do". and while i'm "doing" i'm trying to really focus on savoring the moment that i'm "doing".
x0x0x
Posted by: kL | February 15, 2012 at 08:49 AM
We got your box yesterday, Pam. Thank you!! So excited to add your beautiful fabrics to our stash. Love you!
Posted by: rebecca | February 16, 2012 at 05:19 AM
Love that post...really helpful, thanks for sharing!
Posted by: Nancy O'Rourke-Garcia | February 17, 2012 at 08:56 AM