Driven doing

[dysgwr]

Hi again,

I have a question about "driven-doing" as described in the MBCT 8 week course. If this has been answered before you can just point me in the direction of the tread

I understand driven doing to be when your thoughts keep rolling on leading o turmoil and rumination. A big part of the course is designed to recognise that and gently step back into "being mode"

When we're on automatic pilot I can fully understand why this becomes a problem. But how should we try and bring awareness to those days when there really is 1001 things to do and so little time to do them, especially at work? Is there a skillfull, kind approach to the "You have to do X, then Y and then Z, all before A, B and C"?

Linked to this question is the fact that before relaxing I like to get all of my chores done first, my wife is the opposite. She'll relax before getting into the chores. Would you consider my way driven-doing? Wanting to finsh to then be able to settle.

Thanks,
Terry

[JonW]

Hi Terry,
I guess we all have to deal with days when there are 1001 things to do. But it's still possible to be mindful at times like these. Do one thing at a time. Notice when your mind is jumping to thoughts and anxieties about the second task when you are still engaged with the first. Take regular breaks for short meditations. Pace yourself. And remember to breathe.
As for chores, maybe try not to think of them as chores.
Sitting is the practice. The rest of the day is the meditation. Every moment is an invitation to be mindful. Put the bins out mindfully. Scrub behind the toilet mindfully. Walk the dog mindfully. Be with your present moment experience just as it is. No divide between pleasurable activities and chores.
Best,
Jon

[dysgwr]

Hi Jon,

"No divide between pleasurable activities and chores." Now that is definitely worth a try.... The art of Zen toilet scrubbing

But I'm sure you're on to something there. Thanks

[JonW]

'The art of Zen toilet scrubbing.'
Delegate if at all possible! If it's not possible to pass the buck, then it's far easier to approach it meditatively than treat it with resistance. Toilet brush Zen.
Have a great day.
Happy scrubbing,
Jon