Vanessa de Largie | Topic Media | January 8, 2012
In Italian, ‘il dolce far niente’ translates to ‘the sweetness of doing nothing.’ Perhaps some readers are familiar with the term made popular by best selling author Elizabeth Gilbert, who wrote ‘Eat, Pray, Love’, later made into a film starring Julia Roberts.
In Australia we generally view ‘doing nothing’ as being lazy. It’s all about conforming and ticking societal boxes, that prove we are worthy, hardworking and useful. I am not for one moment, suggesting you give up your job and become a couch spud. It’s our labors, that allow us our pleasures.
I do think we could incorporate some European thought into our Australian way of life though. We are a pretty laid back culture as is, but what the hell
The Sweetness Of Doing Nothing is about being, a way of life free of guilt yet copious in pleasure. Less focus on work and more focus on eating, drinking, sleeping, lovemaking and daydreaming. Sound good? Where you derive your sweetness is up to you.
I have just stuck a new affirmation on my fridge ‘Il Dolce Far Niente.’ It is written in bright red crayon, similar to a neon light.
I won’t wrestle you to the ground with this article but may I twist your arm a little?
Don’t think about work this weekend. Forget the workout. Forget the negatives. Forget the people who cause you distress.
This weekend I want you to be, I want you to embrace.
The Sweetness Of Doing Nothing.~
From the dictionary:
dolce-far-niente
Italian: pleasing inactivity
Origin: Literally (it is) sweet to do nothing.