Life lessons from a jigsaw puzzle.
On occasions throughout life I have enjoyed putting together a jigsaw puzzle. I still remember the delight of tipping the pieces out of the packet and laying them out ready to start. It is a relaxing and rewarding occupation requiring just enough concentration to engage your mind without overwhelming it. However I have to say I can’t remember the last time I actually sat down to tackle a jigsaw puzzle from start to finish. Now I only contribute to other people’s jigsaws. If I see a jigsaw on the go I find it hard to resist. Most people are glad of a little help. I come across jigsaw puzzles in public spaces like railway station waiting rooms and the common areas of residential care homes and they are like a magnet to me.
Watching and helping a small child trying to put together a jigsaw of just a few large pieces can also be fascinating and great fun. You can almost see them puzzling it out before your eyes, once they are past the stage of wanting to chew the pieces that is. A little later in life we know that jigsaw puzzles can be good mental exercise to keep our brains fit and active.
Here are some life lessons to be learned from a jigsaw puzzle I came across. I am sure you can think of others.
Copyright 2001 Jacquie Sewell
Peter
On occasions throughout life I have enjoyed putting together a jigsaw puzzle. I still remember the delight of tipping the pieces out of the packet and laying them out ready to start. It is a relaxing and rewarding occupation requiring just enough concentration to engage your mind without overwhelming it. However I have to say I can’t remember the last time I actually sat down to tackle a jigsaw puzzle from start to finish. Now I only contribute to other people’s jigsaws. If I see a jigsaw on the go I find it hard to resist. Most people are glad of a little help. I come across jigsaw puzzles in public spaces like railway station waiting rooms and the common areas of residential care homes and they are like a magnet to me.
Watching and helping a small child trying to put together a jigsaw of just a few large pieces can also be fascinating and great fun. You can almost see them puzzling it out before your eyes, once they are past the stage of wanting to chew the pieces that is. A little later in life we know that jigsaw puzzles can be good mental exercise to keep our brains fit and active.
Here are some life lessons to be learned from a jigsaw puzzle I came across. I am sure you can think of others.
- Don't force a fit---if something is meant to be, it will come together naturally.
- When things aren't going so well, take a break. Everything will look different when you return.
- Be sure to look at the big picture. Getting hung up on the little pieces only leads to frustration.
- Perseverance pays off. Every important puzzle went together bit by bit, piece by piece.
- When one spot stops working, move to another. But be sure to come back later (see 4 above).
- The creator of the puzzle gave you the picture as a guidebook. Refer to the Creator's guidebook often.
- Variety is the spice of life. It's the different colours and patterns that make the puzzle interesting.
- Working together with friends and family makes any task fun.
- Establish the border first. Boundaries give a sense of security and order.
- Don't be afraid to try different combinations. Some matches are surprising.
- Take time often to celebrate your successes (even little ones).
- Anything worth doing takes time and effort. A great puzzle can't be rushed.
- When you finally reach the last piece, don't be sad. Rejoice in the masterpiece you've made and enjoy a well-deserved rest.
Copyright 2001 Jacquie Sewell
Peter