Patty Mayeux Blog

Consider ebbs and flows, waxing and waning, growth and fallow times. I know they are necessary phases. Yet when slow times come, I need reminding that my lento tempo will soon return to moderato or even presto. Can you tell I’m listening to Chopin as I write this? Music employs lilts and pick-ups to make things interesting. Thankfully, our lives do not maintain a steady beat. Who wants to always walk or run, no change in pace?

            My low energy times are more often of the mental slow-down variety rather than due to physical fatigue. When I’m engaged in a pursuit I strongly believe in, not much can stop me. The challenge is to keep up the pace once a goal has been obtained. Or so we tell our overachieving, performance-based sense of self-worth. Perhaps a better way is to recognize the nature of ups and downs, even the most subtle swings, and give ourselves permission to rest between the peaks. Remembering that the tempo of your life is always temporary can be encouraging. Looking forward to the inevitable energetic growth time builds confidence and excitement for re-engaging with a clear and rested mind. Embrace your tempo. It’s temporary.