Lazy, one of my least favourite words, second only to bored. We know what it looks like, we know what it feels like, but what on earth IS it? We've all heard this word used to describe us or someone else at some point in our lives. It has such a negative tone to it.
I'm lazy, that's it, it's what I am and always will be, end of discussion!
Doesn't create much of a sense of hope, does it? In fact, it's so cringe that I can't imagine anyone would opt to behave in a manner that invites this descriptor. My point is that if we could, in that moment, do the thing, then we probably would.
Instead of conceptualizing this as a character flaw, think of it as being a consequence of overwhelm or exhaustion. At least these explanations offer solutions and spare us all from the unhelpful judgment.
Remember, the action (or lack thereof) does not necessarily reflect what's happening with our thoughts. Being stuck due to overwhelm is pretty common. Instead of using shaming language, stick to judgment-free observations and expressions of concern:
It looks like you've run out of steam; how can I help?
What's standing in your way?
Do you need more energy than you have in order to do this thing? How can you get it?
Are you feeling overwhelmed and stuck? Let's find an easier place to start.
Sometimes we push ourselves too hard or we carry stress for too long, or perhaps we've been particularly anxious. Our nervous system may respond by shut down, collapse, or depression. It's the body's way of saying we need to sort out some problems, slow things down, or engage in restorative practices.
Lazy never improved any situation. It never made anyone particularly enthusiastic about doing the thing, and it never inspired anyone to change their behaviour.
Chat soon,
Juliette
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