(The following was originally written for last month, breaking from this month’s planned theme.)

As November closes, I reflect on one recurring theme that happened this month. The art of slowing down.

While I am a few months into my job, a performance review made me aware of what was good, but what needed progression. To basically take my time in the work that I do to avoid multiple errors.

It was something that I had told myself prior to the review, but the extra details behind it have helped a great deal. Enough to even thank my manager for the information.

Then there is the time that I took my first walk in one of the local parks in a long time. Now I had been taking better care of myself in strength training and eating habits, specifically during the work days.

What kept me from coming back was the disappointment that I would not be as healthy as I used to be, or not rely so much on benches that are available throughout the walkway.

But that’s why I have to tell myself to slow down, and use those benches as a checkpoint to get back to where I was. At least until it gets too cold to stand it. (Author note, 12/4/2023): It’s getting there now.)

One bench at a time. It’s definitely a mantra that I can carry on to anything in a metaphoric sense as well. I could even say that there’s proof of that existing prior to this month, and friendships and potential revisits to romance.

(Author note, 12/4/2023) Being reminded of this in the drafts today is great timing. I needed this reminder 🙂