Have you ever walked into a room only to forget why you went there in the first place? Or perhaps you've turned on your computer to send an email, got distracted by incoming messages, and ended up forgetting to send the email you originally intended? 🙈 These moments are classic examples of operating on autopilot, often referred to as the ‘doing mode.’
The doing mode is a state where we focus on achieving goals, solving problems, and completing tasks. It’s incredibly useful for many activities, like performing routine tasks. However, when we spend too much time in this mode, we can become disconnected from the present moment and our surroundings.
In contrast, the ‘being mode’ is about fully experiencing the present moment without trying to change it or achieve something. It’s about simply being, rather than doing. When we engage in the being mode, we become more aware of our thoughts, feelings, body sensations, and the environment around us. This is where mindfulness comes in.
What is mindfulness?
Jon Kabat-Zinn, often regarded as the ‘father of mindfulness’ in the Western world, defines mindfulness as the awareness that emerges through paying attention on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgementally. It involves being fully aware of what’s happening in the here and now, rather than being lost in thoughts about the past or future. By cultivating mindfulness, we can learn to shift from the doing mode to the being mode, even in the midst of our busy lives.
Even mindfulness teachers aren’t immune to moments of distraction. For example, I once found myself putting an open box of orange juice in the cupboard instead of the fridge 🍊 It was a clear sign that I was lost in my thoughts, not fully present in the moment.
When we operate on autopilot, we miss out on the richness of our experiences. But every time we notice we’ve been distracted, we have an opportunity to bring ourselves back to the present moment with kindness. This is a moment of mindfulness.
Bringing mindfulness into your daily life
When you find yourself running on autopilot, you can use the STOP practice to shift towards the being mode.
Stop: Pause whatever you’re doing.
Take a breath: Breathe deeply, focus on the sensation of the breath entering and leaving your body to anchor yourself in the present moment.
Observe: Notice what is happening around you. What do you see, hear, feel? Also, observe your thoughts and emotions without judgment.
Proceed: Continue with your activities, carrying a greater sense of awareness and focus.
By integrating the STOP practice into your routine, you can transform everyday activities into opportunities for mindfulness, enhancing both your well-being and productivity.
Mindfulness in action
Imagine driving home from work 🚙 In doing mode, you might be thinking about your to-do list, a recent meeting, or what to have for dinner. You might not even notice the beautiful sunset or the changing seasons. In being mode, you could take a moment to appreciate the colours of the sky, the feel of the steering wheel in your hands, and the sound of the engine.
The balance between doing and being
While the doing mode is essential for many tasks, balancing it with moments of being can lead to a more fulfilling and mindful life. Whether you’re working on a project, spending time with loved ones, or simply enjoying a cup of tea, integrating mindfulness can transform your experiences.
Are you ready to bring more mindfulness into your life? Start by noticing when you’re on autopilot and practice shifting to the being mode. If you’d like to explore more ways to cultivate mindfulness in both your personal and professional life, feel free to contact me here.
Remember, mindfulness is a journey, not a destination. Every moment is an opportunity to practice and grow.
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