Learning to fidget

I received some liberating advice earlier this week.  A further instalment to my observations about how we work and doing too much to prove that we can; last week’s ideas which came together as, “A witches spell”.  It seems that now I need to give myself permission to be a foot fidget.  I’m excited by the prospect.

Like so many people, when I am concentrating, I tend to sit very still for relatively long periods.  I seldom fidget or get up and walk around if I don’t need to, preferring to sit it out and complete the task.  This probably stems from my early progress as a trainer and subsequent development as a recruiter.  I’ve fond memories of video playbacks (to help my learning) which proved just how much I moved around while training, 80s style curls bobbing up and down Brian May style.  Then there was my tendency to touch my hair or fiddle with my necklace just before asking difficult or probing interview questions also captured on tape.  I learned so much about how fidgeting can be a distraction – video is a wonderful medium.

Fidget is a fabulous word (a bit like jiggle) and it’s even given over to a savoury pork pie made with onions, apples, bacon and sometimes potatoes.  Fidget pie originates from the Midlands, and it seems the recipe hasn’t changed much in 400 years.  Some recipes include cider while others suggest eating a hunk of pie with piccallili and cider accompaniments.

The unremarkable insect bite which interrupted my wedding cake building plans back in August has nudged me towards foot fidgeting.  It seems that when I can’t keep my right leg raised above my head, I need to keep my leg and foot moving to prevent unnecessary swelling and improve circulation.  A lifetime of waxing, and recent infection all played their part in encouraging the hairs on my leg to grow at a 90° angle.  Trust me it’s not a pretty sight but one I need to live with for now.  So that’s put paid to any imminent videos of my foot fidgeting routines.  Let’s revisit that one after Christmas.

Right now, I need to break my habit of sitting so still (for so long) when I’m working and move around more.  I’ve started with a smaller glass for my water, so I’m compelled to get up and refill it more often.  That reminds me, it must be time for a cuppa.  And I’ve rediscovered the radio and the benefits of musical encouragement.  I’m no Sophie Ellis-Bextor or Joe Wicks although I’m encouraging you to join me in my quest to keep our feet moving while working and reap the benefits:

·       Become a kitchen disco diva (move more)

·       Remember to move around safely

·       Set a timer to remind you to get up

·       Ditch the mug and get a cup

·       Drink water from a smaller glass

·       Foot fidget to your favourite tune

·       Roll a spikey ball around (barefoot)

·       Devise a repeatable and memorable routine

·       Remember not to fidget in interviews – it’s distracting

·       Consider the impact of foot fidgeting on video calls

·       Learn to look after yourself

·       Remember life doesn’t need to be a competition

Why not get in touch with your ideas for foot fidgeting while working … Let’s talk.