Tap Out
When I interview celebrities and cultural influencers, I ask them how do they find solace or peace of mind? I find it interesting to see how people tap out of the real world and tap into their souls. Their answers vary but the commonality is always in relation to quietness or stillness. Now-a-days, people are so busy with work/school, roaming thoughts and ideas, and the overwhelming amount of responsibility. Being still or quiet can seem far fetched, but how else are you going to listen to what your body truly needs?
Tapping out of the real world is removing thoughts and interest from people and things that consume you daily. Money, family, work, means of transportation, hobbies, responsibilities, hell…the concept of time in general are things we deal with daily. Our attention is consistently being pulled in multiple directions. To tap out you need to figure out when are you must comfortable. Then combine that with the method in which your mind is the most clear or detached from responsible reasoning. Try to schedule this model daily.
I make it a priority to find my stillness daily. It may look differently depending on what’s going on that day. As a mother, writer, and educator my mind is on a ‘hunnid’ all the time. Conversing with God throughout the day, meditation, focusing on lyrics to quality songs, and getting lost in a good book are some of the tactics that work for me. Another approach that works for me is researching influential people that are specifically significant to my culture. My mother forced me to do this as a child and it’s an amazing tool that I allow to teach me structure, discipline and courage.
A plethora of celebrity figures have added value to my character and consciousness. Individuals such as Maya Angelou, Tupac, KRS One, Amy Winehouse, Nina Simone, Ernest Hemingway, and several others. As a creative its essential that I question my comfort zones, push the limits of my thoughts and be open to experiences. Reading, seeing, and hearing how the “GREATS” did it is educational and spiritual for me. I’m getting a prime example of what it’s like to believe out loud, to be free in your vulnerability, and to control your reactions.
Do yourself a favor and figure out what works for you. Demand that your schedule centers around you, at least for a small portion of the day. Temporarily disconnect from the world and focus in on what matters to you and your future.