“To do two things at once is to do neither.” -Publilius Syrus

One of my favorite things to do every morning is to make a latte. I love the entire process of it–grinding the coffee beans, using the stirrer to break up any coffee grind chunks, leveling out the grinds with the tamp, placing the portafilter into the machine, and letting the creamy, magical espresso fill the mug.

Once I’ve made my latte, I don’t sip it right away. I simply hold it first. I have both hands wrapped around the ceramic, letting the heat settle into my palms; I suddenly feel very calm.

The house is quiet. But in that in-between way; not completely silent, but softened. In the kitchen, the dishwasher hums. Neighbors shut their car doors as they take their kids to school. I hear Banks walk around the house, his nails tapping on the hardwood with each step. 

But here, at the table, nothing asks for me or of me. I don’t check notifications. I don’t look at any list to get ahead of. It’s just me and my coffee for a few moments before the boys wake up.

My latte is still too hot to enjoy. I watch the steam rise and curl. It slows me down. Or perhaps, I allow it to slow me down. 

So much of life pulls us toward speed and doing multiple things at 90 mph. Society feeds off of splitting our attention while calling it mastery and productivity. We feel we must maximize every hour. 

But there’s something else here, something steadier and much more lovely, in doing only one thing. 

We have learned to layer our “tasks” and the everyday of our lives. Catching up on emails while sipping coffee, still in pajamas. Or listening to an audiobook while going on a walk. And eating dinner while watching TV. 

And sure, it’s “efficient” if that’s what you’re looking for. But lately? I’ve been craving something else entirely. 

When I catch myself fully engrossed in one thing, like folding laundry or watering our plants, it makes me so much happier and at peace. I allow myself to fully enjoy and experience this one wonderfully delightful thing, without layering my tasks or allowing other tasks of the day to cloud my attention. 

I focus on the one thing. And I enjoy it ten-fold. 

Allowing myself to be fully present has been quietly life-changing. I no longer feel like life is rushing past me. And now, with our 2nd baby here, I find myself holding onto each moment more tightly. I want to be here for all of it: awake to the shifts, the stillness, the quiet wonder–because it all moves so quickly. 

So, maybe tomorrow morning, when the house is still (if it ever is) and the light is just right, take your time with one small thing. Make your latte, fold your laundry slowly, and water your plants gracefully. Let the world fall away for a moment and simply be here.

Because doing one thing well is not just enough, it’s everything.