There is an Italian phrase “La Dolce Far Niente,” which means "the sweetness of doing nothing.”

I often think about it when I contemplate busy modern life. Capitalism has us convinced we need to grind like automatons, consistently going to work or to school or even to the gym. Our recreational activities are also not spared.

I’m sorry to say, but America in particular (where I spent most of my formative years) has a big problem with Doing Nothing. Since the culture values hard work so tremendously, people are discomfited with the idea of doing nothing. But why not? When you look back at your life, maybe you won’t wish that you did more things. Maybe it is enough to learn how to relax. I’m sure it is better for our stress levels and our blood pressure.

Even now, back in India, I feel the force of this cultural commandment. In fact, I sometimes even feel the pressure to fill a leisurely weekend with Things to Do- I should be being productive, I should be reading more books, I should go for a run, I should cook, so on and so forth. Why can I simply not relax doing nothing? Do I have to go to a concert or to a play just to feel that I’ve “utilised” my weekend to the hilt?

Sometimes I look at my cat and think, ah, how perfect. He has mastered la dolce far niente. He simply sits, doing nothing but contemplating the wall or the houseplants. He feels no pressure. He is relaxing; enjoying himself. Would that I could do the same! It truly is an art.