The Inner Compass Blog

How can we start the new year with more energy after yet another strange year of living through a global pandemic and difficult experiences?

 
I told my neighbour I was back from a 4-week holiday, and she looked at me with surprise and asked ‘how is that for your clients’? I checked in with my inner judge, but it turned out she had nothing to say today.

I look at the sea from the little sand dune where we’re hiding from the sun under a tree. Bright spots shine like diamonds on the water’s surface. No loud music, no plastic pop-it toys. Just him and me and some other tourists at a far distance.

 
It was late in the evening. My upper back was aching, and I was stress eating another cracker with cream cheese. My eyes were tired—from wearing my contact lenses too long I told myself, but the truth was, I had been staring into a screen for more than 12 hours.

I’ve been aware of the idea of creating space, slowing down and simplifying for some time, but until recently I was not able to fully grasp what this idea is all about. When I moved to Germany 12 years ago, I didn’t think I could afford to slow down.

Today is Mother’s day in Germany and I want to take the opportunity to highlight all the invisible work we, as Mums do.

Tomorrow is the last day of this year and I am taking the opportunity to reflect on what has been my most important learning during 2016.