I used to think comfort meant having a walk-in closet and a fat bank account.
The word “comfort” has taken on different meanings as I’ve grown older and (hopefully) wiser.
In my younger years, I associated comfort with physical things and status symbols: a certain amount of money, career achievements, a big house with a walk-in closet… the list of things to check off seemed endless.
But over time, I realized that these items weren’t the means to comfort but tools to achieve it.
A few years ago, I saw my bank account balance grow thanks to my career success.
With more business coming in, I decided to skip my vacation and keep working long hours. Despite pursuing life’s comforts, I felt anything but comfortable. Instead, I was stressed and very uncomfortable.
These days, I associate comfort with intangible qualities: feelings, emotions, and moods.
A rare lazy Sunday without a to-do list or schedule has become the true comfort I now appreciate.
Achieving these lazy Sundays requires a conscious decision. It doesn’t depend on a certain bank balance or anyone’s permission.
By being intentional with my time during the week, I can “earn” those relaxed Sundays.
The saying “there is no free lunch” resonates with the trade-offs we make in life.
To feel comfortable in one area, like my lazy Sundays, I have to make uncomfortable compromises, such as working more hours during the week.
Of course, there’s still a place for physical comforts, like expensive but comfortable running shoes, high-thread-count bedsheets, or a meal at a nice restaurant to avoid doing dishes. These physical comforts remain important in my quest for overall comfort as well as certina bank account balance:-)
So, what are you willing to trade off to seek your comfort?
Life Outside of Design Studio 