This Week On Praxis

Google Calendar and Embracing Convenience

I might be a little bit archaic in my scheduling ways.

When I was homeschooling and working my way through my degree, I took up the habit of writing out my agenda in a paper planner. With pen. Not on a computer.

I feel a little behind the times.

It’s definitely been a good change to start using Google Calendar to plan out the week ahead. Honestly, I probably should’ve started doing it sooner, but I am definitely a creature of habit. In fact, I will most likely continue to write out my agenda in my paper planner along side the digital version. At least for a little while; I would describe it as a meditative practice that helps me ground myself.

All that said, I am excited that I can see the benefits of positive change. Even if it’s a small difference, like getting notified on my phone about upcoming events.

Work

Chalk Drawings and Early Mornings

I have no complaints about my job as a barista. I truly don’t.

Firstly, I’ve managed to establish myself as the “artsy one,” which means I have gotten to spend paid time drawing promotional signs in chalk to display outside the store. It’s such a small thing, but it’s a way for me to leave my mark; contributing something unique and valuable, all while getting to gain experience in something that I am excited about. It’s a big win for me, and I’m pretty happy about it.

Secondly, my (extreme) tendency to wake up in the early morning is benefiting both me and the store where I am working. I don’t think I have slept in later than 7:00 a.m. a single day of my life. I usually wake up by 4:00 a.m., and pushing it back a little earlier to accommodate an opening shift has actually been an interesting experience.

I enjoy the peace of early mornings; I get to commute with no traffic on the roads and enjoy the silence before the rest of the world wakes up. What’s not to love?

Art & Music

Repetition, Repetition, Repetition

When I was younger and first learning how to play various instruments, I discovered a method of auditory torture called “Learning By Repetition,” and it was delivered in the form of Carol Of The Bells on piano.

My family may have almost killed me, but I mastered that song. It took a week.

Luckily, as my skill levels on various instruments improved, it got a little less annoying. And my little brother gifted me headphone amp for my birthday this year, which enables me to silently practice electric guitar. Honestly, it’s a huge win for everyone. I am learning an elaborate version of “Moon River.” Hopefully, it doesn’t become as monotonous as Carol Of The Bells.

Looking In To Next Week

Relaxing About Scheduling

I got a little irritated this week when my plans changed.

Actually, I have gotten a little irritated every single time in my life that my plans have changed.

I am trying to learn relax and to not let myself be bothered when I have to put something off until later. My mom and my brother do their best work at the last minute, with the pressure of a deadline making them a million times more efficient than they are under normal circumstances. I’ve definitely experienced that moment of focus in the heat of the moment, but it’s not the most accommodative of my personality. I work best gradually and with designated dedication, and I don’t really like putting things on the back burner.

Regardless, I know that I can do my best no matter what the situation. I plan to start focusing on being content working with the time that I have, and trying to bring ease the perfectionist in me.

(Not completely though. Being a perfectionist has helped me a lot in my life. It’s all about balance, I think.)