Friends,
Hello there, and happy Friday. Welcome to the 30th edition of Unpacking!
Emily here. I am feeling reflective this week. I think what prompted this reflection is 1) spiralling world events, 2) turning one year older recently, and 3) approaching one year of living in DC.
First, let me admit something: When I turned 22, I felt compelled to follow Taylor Swift’s Feeling 22 lead, and I wrote a poem about my own 22-year-old life. Since then, I’ve written one poem at some random point during every succeeding year. Whenever I write a new poem, I reread the old ones, and notice shifts in thinking.
Much of modern-day reflection seems to hinge on maintaining a daily or weekly routine: keeping up a diary, meditating daily, logging moods in an app, 1 second a day videos. I think it’s great, even admirable, to engage in daily or weekly reflection routines. But I think there’s also value in more sporadic and unstructured reflection, too.
So Carrie and Unpacking readers, here’s my proposal: Being “reflective” shouldn’t require regimented, daily habits and the willpower to write in a diary each day or week. I think being “reflective” is more about falling into your own reflection prompts, opportunities or rituals, whenever they arise and whenever you need them.
What does unstructured reflection look like? It could be thinking about your career while staring out the window of a plane, experiencing newfound appreciation for an old friend while looking back at old photos in your phone, or listening to a podcast that shakes you up. Essentially, reflecting when it feels natural and when you need it.
Carrie, does any of this resonate?
Carrie: Yes! This kinda reminds me of that book about being quiet. Carving out capacity for unstructured reflection feels like a critical skill, especially when there are so many distractions. I will say, though, as a fan of the Artist’s Way and morning pages, maybe there’s room for both kinds of reflection.
Water Cooler Conversation
Carrie: Okay Emily I have your weekend read for you: Joan Didion’s profile of Martha Stewart. This throwback piece from February 2000 is worth your time.
Emily: I CAN’T WAIT TO READ THIS.
Emily: Alright Carrie, here’s the poem!
Carrie: Emily! This is makes my day. Thank you for sharing. I particularly love your line about red lipstick and LinkedIn Premium.
Readers and friends, tell us if you have any favorite methods for reflection? May your weekend be whatever you want it to be.
Your pals,
Carrie & Emily