Do You Like to Putter?

October 4, 2022

Puttering

My friend loves to putter! I often looked at it as a waste of time, until I read more about it. Neil Seligman, mindfulness teacher, life coach, and author explains, “It’s one of the most effective ways we have of loosening the grip of goal-orientation and purposeful, end-game activities. ….puttering activities are effortless and not restricted by time or place. You can putter anywhere, at any time and for as long or as briefly as you want.”

Webster’s Dictionary defines puttering as ‘moving or acting aimlessly.’ Puttering is something you choose to do to give your mind a break from thinking. Counselor, life and wellness coach Elisabetta Franzoso says, “(You) have to release your mind, to set it free to wander, and to do that, the activity you choose needs to be devoid of responsibility and purpose.”

Puttering is one of the best treats you can give your mind. Your brain, like other muscles, needs time to stretch and move in different directions. It frees your mind from problem-solving, absorbing and interpreting information, working, and interacting with other human beings.

The Benefits of Puttering

It helps you rebalance. Puttering is an important way in which we process, integrate, and move our lives forward.
It leads to creative thinking. When you are puttering the brain is fully relaxed, which is often when creativity sparks into life.
It boosts your well-being and happiness. Franzoso explains that puttering “builds, nurtures, and maintains well-being because it liberates the spirit from the responsibilities of daily life.
It’s fun. Many people seem to enjoy the same activities, like tidying books, clearing out cupboards, or dead-heading plants.
It fuels self-care and love. “Puttering is me-time,” says psychotherapist Jane Barnfield-Jukes. “Time slows …. It also allows me to ponder, and simply be. Puttering can lead to inspiration.”
It can benefit your physical health. Keeping busy in your home, yard, or garage is good for your heart.
It helps you appreciate the value of things. Enjoying life can be found in quiet, small activities.