In our modern, fast-paced world, the pressure to constantly be doing is overwhelming. We are taught from an early age that productivity, achievement, and results are the markers of success. Whether it’s meeting deadlines at work, checking off to-do lists, or striving for personal goals, we are often caught in a cycle of relentless action. While there’s value in taking action and moving toward our goals, we rarely pause to consider whether this constant doing is truly bringing us fulfillment or whether we are simply moving from one task to the next without purpose.
There’s another way of existing, one that is often overlooked or dismissed in our productivity-obsessed culture: the state of being. Unlike doing, being invites us to slow down, step back, and embrace a deeper connection with ourselves and the world around us. It is the space where transformation happens—not through effort or striving, but through reflection, mindfulness, and presence.
This blog post explores the balance between being and doing, and how shifting the focus from one to the other can lead to profound changes in how we live, work, and experience the world.
The Doing Mindset: A Constant Cycle of Action
Our culture glorifies action and progress. From the moment we wake up, many of us are mentally running through lists of tasks to accomplish that day. We are constantly in a state of doing, whether it’s working, caring for others, checking off household chores, or even participating in activities meant to “relax” us. Even when we rest, there’s often an underlying sense of guilt or anxiety—am I doing enough? Am I achieving enough?
The problem with the doing mindset is that it can lead to burnout, disconnection, and a sense of emptiness. When we are solely focused on what we do, our self-worth becomes tied to our accomplishments. We begin to believe that our value is measured by how much we produce, how quickly we achieve our goals, or how efficiently we move from one task to another. This constant pressure leaves little room for reflection, creativity, or emotional connection.
And while accomplishing tasks or achieving goals can feel satisfying in the short term, we often move so quickly that we lose touch with why we are doing these things in the first place. We end up going through the motions of life, rarely stopping to consider whether the path we’re on aligns with our deeper values, desires, or sense of purpose.
The Power of Being: Slowing Down and Listening Inward
Being, on the other hand, is a state of presence. It is about existing in the moment without the need to accomplish, solve, or act. In this state, we become more attuned to our inner world—our thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations. We begin to notice the parts of life that we often miss when we are too focused on doing.
One of the most powerful aspects of being is that it allows us to receive rather than force. In a state of being, we open ourselves to whatever arises naturally, whether that’s a feeling, insight, or moment of peace. We let go of the need to control or fix, and instead trust that what we need will come to us in its own time.
Being is the foundation of mindfulness practices, such as meditation, forest therapy, and other forms of nature connection. These practices invite us to step out of the busyness of life and into a state of observation and reflection. They encourage us to engage with the world through our senses, to listen deeply, and to be present with whatever unfolds in the moment.
For example, when walking through a forest in a state of being, we aren’t focused on reaching a destination or completing a hike. Instead, we’re simply observing—the sound of leaves rustling in the wind, the texture of the earth beneath our feet, the sensation of sunlight filtering through the trees. In this space, we allow nature to speak to us, and we become more attuned to its rhythms and wisdom.
Balancing Being and Doing
It’s important to recognize that being and doing are not opposites, but complementary states. While being invites reflection, doing drives action. The key is finding balance between the two. When we spend too much time in a state of doing, we risk becoming disconnected from ourselves and from what truly matters. When we are too focused on being, we may struggle to move forward or make practical decisions.
The ideal balance is one where being informs doing. In other words, our actions should flow from a place of clarity and alignment with our deeper values and sense of self. When we take the time to be present, reflect, and listen inwardly, our doing becomes more intentional and meaningful. Rather than rushing to complete tasks or achieve external goals, we are motivated by a deeper sense of purpose.
For example, imagine a person who is constantly busy at work, striving to meet deadlines and impress their boss. Over time, they become disconnected from their passion for the job and feel burned out. By taking time to step into a state of being—whether through meditation, a walk in nature, or simple reflection—they can reconnect with their original motivation. From this place of being, they may realize that their true desire is to work in a way that is more aligned with their values, such as fostering collaboration or creativity. This realization then informs their actions, allowing them to approach their work with renewed energy and purpose.
The Role of Nature in Being
One of the most effective ways to tap into a state of "being" is through connecting with nature. Nature naturally encourages us to slow down, pay attention, and be present. Unlike the fast-paced world of work, screens, and constant demands, nature has no agenda. It simply invites us to observe and receive, offering a space for stillness and reflection.
In my Guided Forest Therapy Walks, we explore the power of being through guided experiences in nature and mindfulness practices. Participants are encouraged to set aside their to-do lists, responsibilities, and the constant chatter of the mind, to immerse themselves fully in the present moment. The walk is not about reaching a particular destination, achieving a specific goal, or even solving a problem—it's about creating space for personal reflection, discovery, and connection.
The practice of forest therapy involves a slow, sensory-immersive walk where you're encouraged to notice and engage with the natural world around you. Whether it's the way sunlight filters through the leaves, the sound of wind through the branches, or the feeling of the earth beneath your feet, each invitation during the walk encourages you to open up to the experience in a gentle, non-demanding way.
When we spend time in nature with this mindset of being, we often find that the answers we've been seeking come to us naturally. Clarity on a personal issue, a sense of peace amidst chaos, or a deeper connection to ourselves—nature has a way of providing exactly what we need, but only if we are willing to slow down and listen.
The Path to Transformation: Being Before Doing
Ultimately, true transformation happens not through relentless action, but through the state of being. By giving ourselves permission to step away from constant doing and into a space of reflection, we create the conditions for deep personal growth. From this space of being, we can gain clarity on who we are, what we truly desire, and how we want to move forward in life.
In this way, being comes before doing. When we are grounded in a state of being, our actions flow more naturally and are aligned with our deeper sense of purpose. This leads to more meaningful, intentional doing, rather than action for the sake of action.
As you go through your daily life, consider how you can create more space for being. Whether it’s through a mindfulness practice, time spent in nature, or simply pausing to reflect, allow yourself to slow down and receive whatever it is that you need in the moment.
Remember, transformation begins not with doing more, but with being present.
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