In a thought-provoking article, Sophia El Khensae Bentamy, a Moroccan consultant, coach, and teacher of communication techniques, shares her insights on the concept of availability. She argues that having time does not necessarily mean being available. Bentamy emphasizes that availability is not solely measured in hours or minutes but encompasses various dimensions, including temporal, physical, energetic, mental, and emotional aspects.
Bentamy recounts her personal experiences, where she often associated availability with having time. However, she came to realize that this perspective was limited. She shares that there are instances where, despite having time, one may lack the energy, emotional resources, or desire to commit to something or someone. This understanding has led her to reassess her approach to commitments and learn to set boundaries.
The author highlights the importance of considering multiple factors when evaluating one's availability. Temporal availability refers to the schedule and time slots, while physical and energetic availability concern one's physical and emotional state. Mental availability involves the capacity to focus and attend, and emotional availability pertains to being receptive to others' emotions. Lastly, there is the aspect of desire and willingness, which is often overlooked.
Bentamy shares that she has learned to prioritize her energy, emotional state, and genuine desire when considering commitments. This approach allows her to make conscious choices, rather than automatically saying yes due to habit, fear of disappointing others, or a desire to please. By doing so, she aims to maintain a balance and avoid burnout.
The consultant emphasizes that taking care of one's availability is essential to maintaining the quality of one's presence. This involves being mindful of one's energy, emotions, and desires, rather than simply going through the motions. By being more intentional with her commitments, Bentamy aims to cultivate more meaningful interactions and a greater sense of fulfillment.
Bentamy's reflections offer valuable insights for individuals seeking to reassess their priorities and boundaries. By recognizing the complexities of availability, people can make more informed choices about how they allocate their time and energy. This, in turn, can lead to more authentic relationships, improved well-being, and a greater sense of purpose.
Ultimately, Bentamy's article encourages readers to reexamine their understanding of availability and its various dimensions. By doing so, individuals can develop a more nuanced approach to commitments and cultivate a greater sense of self-awareness. This, in turn, can lead to more fulfilling interactions and a more balanced life.
Key points
- The concept of availability extends beyond time and encompasses various dimensions, including temporal, physical, energetic, mental, and emotional aspects.
