Spinning Plates

You’ve heard the expression “spinning plates, “ right? Yes, there is actual plate spinning, which is similar to juggling where one keeps spinning plates in the air without them falling. So this metaphorical idea of plate spinning is where one “spins” several different ideas, to do’s, projects pretty much simultaneously and (hopefully!) successfully.

I realized, in a very intentional way, while on vacation this week that much of the time (notice I did not say ALL of the time!) I actually don’t mind spinning multiple plates. In my case, I think of these plates as things that occur in my mind (i.e. to do’s) as well as things occurring real time.

Once all of the plates have gotten going in the air, it’s not really that hard to keep them going. Picking up the individual plates though can be really exhausting! It is important to remember to keep the number of plates at a reasonable amount - each of us chooses this, and when it feels unreasonable or unmanageable, it is time to either reduce or delegate some of those plates. You might think of this as someone else needs to load the dishwasher! (Although honestly, I’m very particular about this task, so perhaps not a great example!)

Can you relate? While away this week, I have really spent some time thinking about this and have recommitted to being aware of my own plate spinning. We shall see how long that lasts!