Keeping Busy

Having just had a week off from work, it’s made me realise something. I like to be busy. At least, I like to be busy on my terms. I don’t necessarily enjoy it when I have lots of places to visit, or lots of jobs to get completed at work, but if there are odd jobs to be doing around the house, it seems that I find it impossible to rest until they’re done – or at least until I’ve started them.

So much so in fact, that Dave likened me to the terminator during our week off together. I think perhaps he may be exaggerating a little.

We began the week decorating the hallway – a bigger job than first anticipated (isn’t this always the case?) – and it’s true that I have been somewhat determined to get it done, with a few 7am starts, I admit. For me though, not for him. 

The truth is, I enjoy it. I wrote a list at the beginning of the week of the jobs I would like to do on my holiday – paint the hallway, read a book or two – as I find it’s always nice to have a plan.

I always knew that I was not someone who sat around. I sit down at work every day, so I want to be up doing things when I’m off. The difference is, that Dave enjoys “sitting around”. He wants to relax on his holiday and take it easy. I completely understand this, and sometimes wish I could be the same, but unfortunately, it doesn’t really lend itself to getting much done. I want to go back to work feeling as though I’ve accomplished something, that I’ve ticked a few more jobs off the never-ending to-do list. Simultaneously, it would also be nice to return to work feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. It’s all about finding the right balance. Something I haven’t quite mastered.

It’s funny the traits and small idiosyncrasies we discover as we grow older. I always knew I was a “potterer” but since buying our first home, this seems to ring true more than ever before.

I’ve come to realise then, that to keep both Dave and I happy, we need two weeks off. One to relax and one to potter. A thought to consider for next time perhaps.