We explore the nature of doing and not-doing, first in dharma practice generally. The Buddha’s teachings seem full of exhortations to diligence, mindfulness, and skillful effort and doing. Yet there also is a clear place for not-doing—for example, in letting go and in cultivating mindful receptivity to experience. We can also see how being a “doer” is so central to many of our identities, whether in our roles or work or even our meditation. Given these dimensions of doing and not-doing, we suggest a number of ways to inquire into and respond to our patterns and habits related to doing and not-doing, both in meditation and daily life.

Cultivating equanimity towards someone we're close to, but we experience as challenging in some way, using the phrases: I care about you, but cannot live your life for you Your happiness or unhappiness depends upon your actions, not upon my wishes for you

Guided meditation and talk at Gaia House's online Dharma hall session on "What, when I do it, will lead to my long-term well-being and happiness?".