Quiet
While quiet quitting has become a phenomenon, being quiet has gotten lost in the noise of everyday life.
Near my home is a network of trails through the forest. I like to walk my dog there in the morning. Often, I don’t see another person or dog, but I hear the birdsong and listen for quiet.
Focusing on the quiet settles my thoughts. For me, the quiet creates an essential space to reflect on my true thoughts and feelings, unfettered by the noise of everyday life. Quiet times are becoming scarce and therefore a luxury in the dynamic and noisy environment that surrounds most of us (Biguenet, 2015). According the 2024 research study, “Quiet environments and the intentional practice of silence: Toward a new perspective in the analysis of silence in organizations,” Asselineau et. al. argue that the “almost constant noise can impair the human ability to address the most pressing challenges of our time,” (Asselineau, Grolleau, and Mzoughi, 2024). They show that quiet reduces stress levels, improves well-being, and individual or organizational performance
Embracing quiet is not an absence of sound or activity. I hear birds in the trees and walk the trails. The quiet is a vital opportunity to listen deeply and attentively before moving forward with a clear intention and purpose for the day. As I walk, a previously obscured insight often surfaces from the silence. Seemingly out of nowhere, it’s something I can take with me to improve my day.
Humans need quiet for:
Stress Reduction—Silence can help reduce stress and anxiety, providing a break from constant stimuli and promoting relaxation.
Emotional Well-being—Quiet moments can foster introspection and self-reflection, helping us process thoughts and emotions.
Improved Sleep—A quiet environment is conducive to better sleep, which is essential for physical and mental health.
Creativity Boost: Silence can stimulate creativity by allowing our minds to wander and explore new ideas without interruptions or outside influence.
Connection with Nature: Quiet spaces often lead to a deeper connection with nature, which can enhance feelings of peace and well-being.
These are all good reasons to seek quiet spaces, especially amid change and transition. The next time you are in nature or alone in a room, remove your AirPods, put away your phone, and listen for silence.
You may be surprised by what you learn about yourself.