Recreating as a Monotask
The fourth and final monotask that I want to highlight in this series (after worshipping, studying, and conversing) is ‘recreating.’ I’m referring to our recreation, the way that we ‘recharge’ emotionally, mentally, and relationally.
We often think of recreation as being equivalent to ‘having fun,’ but it is quite different. While recreation is enjoyable, it is not necessarily ‘fun’ – instead, it is relaxing and recharging. It is what we do to rejuvenate ourselves, and as such, it is quite important.
Other times, we think of recreation as a ‘waste of time,’ but nothing could be farther from the truth. Recreating as a monotask is not about wasting time; it’s about doing things that get us in the best shape to be able to do effectively what we are supposed to be about. Hence, it is the farthest thing from wasting time.
Because recreation is so important, I’m including it among monotasks: it is something worth doing completely, with your undivided attention.
Sometimes we can feel more ‘charged up’ by watching a movie or surfing YouTube or playing video games. Sometimes – but rarely. More often, these things actually make us less ‘fit for useful service’ that God has called us to.
So, how do we recreate in a way that is going to actually charge us up?
> Consider what really charges you up. Come up with a list of those things. Taking a walk, going on a bike ride, maybe coloring pictures or some specific movies (for example: Planet Earth really recharges me!). Perhaps it is a hobby, or even sometimes a chore that you enjoy doing (mowing the lawn?). Some people enjoy outdoor activites, such as fishing or bird-watching. We are rarely intentional to consider what it is that actually recharges us. Not all of these things will always be recharging, but find what would recharge you, personally. For some people, kicking their feet up and watching a football game on TV might be just the thing – but for other people, that might get them into a lazy mood so that they have a hard time taking initiative afterward. You have to find what recharges you.
> Just as important is to recognize what does not recharge – anything that demands high intensity, or leaves you feeling sapped or drained. Similarly, anything that is really hard to pull away from is unlikely to really recharge you. If it is flashy, showy, and has lots of excitement, it is probably a distraction, not a recreation. For this reason, things like video games, any sort of really competitive game, or intense music or movies is unlikely to truly be recreation, of the sort that should be monotasked.
> Determine how much time to recreate. The goal of recreation is to recharge, not to waste time. So, how much time do you need? There is nothing wrong with planning an entire morning to do something that you enjoy, and after a particularly long week, that might be just the recreation they need. Others don’t need that much time, or at least not often. Alternately, doing something for just a few minutes might be enough to recharge – but quite often won’t really help. Consider this question in advance.
> Recreation requires that you drop your thoughts of all that must get done. It’s useless to spend your recreation stressing over things. So find ways to remove those distractions from your mind. Maybe you need to finish a big project before your recreation, since you might not be able to focus until then. Of course, sometimes your brain needs a break from the intensity. Manage your phone, and don’t let distractions hinder your recreation.
> Creativity is one of the best ways to recreate. Many people enjoy LEGOs, art, coloring, drawing, painting, playing an instrument (but not necessarily ‘practicing’ in an intensive way). Personally, I enjoy creating maps. If you’ve never tried creativity as a form of recreation, you should consider it!
> Spend time in an environment that recharges you. Where do you like to be, that allows you to relax? Perhaps you have a home with big windows overlooking a beautiful view. Or, you have a comfortable chair. Wherever it is, take five minutes and putting on calming music, then enjoy the setting. This can be a short but powerful way to ‘recharge.’
> Walking is another great way to recreate. In fact, it is one of the best ways, admired by many throughout history. All forms of physical exercise in the outdoors – provided that they are not too strenuous – can help you relax. And for some people, strenuous exercise is exactly the thing that helps them release the tension of their day. At a minimum, do things that get you outside, in the sunlight.
> Plan time for recreation. You should have at least a little time planned each day, but certainly a longer period of time planned each week. Without this, you risk burnout. If you feel that you don’t have time for recreation, remember the risk you run: burnout will destroy far more time than the recreation that you plan.
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