Have you ever encountered that overwhelming feeling of chaos; both in your physical surroundings and your mental space? As a parent, I've found myself in this whirlpool of clutter more times than I care to admit. This episode is a reflection on my personal journey of embracing mental minimalism, as well as the powerful change this shift has brought to my life and that of my children. We unravel the power of 'white space', a tool I've found not only declutters our lives but also paves the way for a more peaceful, purposeful, and fulfilled existence.
Our conversation takes us to the heart of creating 'white space', highlighting the significant role it can play in our lives and those of our children. We navigate the insights of Greg McKeown's "Essentialism", a guide that has been instrumental in fostering clarity and aligning our lives with our true values. And, taking a leaf from the Navy Seals, we explore the philosophy of 'slow is smooth, smooth is fast', a mantra that encourages deliberate and careful decision-making.
In the final part of our discussion, we shift our focus to play, emphasizing the importance of informal play. Drawing on the research of Dr. Peter Gray, we reiterate the life-long value of play and natural learning. We dissect the pressures of formal schooling and structured activities, advocating for a simpler, more meaningful approach to play and learning. This episode is a sincere invitation to all parents to simplify, to create more 'white space', and to allow our children the freedom to explore and play, creating the mental white space they need for a healthier and more joyous life. Join us on this journey toward a more meaningful way of living and learning.
Check out the books referenced in today's show:
"Essentialism" by Greg McKeown
Other Resources to Explore:
"The Decline of Play" TEDx by Peter Gray
"How Our Schools Thwart Passions" TEDx by Peter Gray
A Couple Extra Links for Personal Reminders as you Homeschool--grab a couple tissues--different Songs with the same name:
"Slow Down" by Nichole Nordeman
"Slow Down" feat. Sissel (with Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square)
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*Please note that some of the links included in this article are Amazon affiliate links.
