Got big plans for Mother’s Day this weekend? Or are you on the opposite side of the coin, in agony about doing nothing once again?

It’s amazing how much suffering we can cause ourselves over nothing.

There is the stress that develops over the plans we make. Trying to get the best gift for mom and grandma, worrying yourself over postage stamps and shipping costs. Stressing out over dinner that needs to be made, gifts that need to be wrapped, flowers that need to be bought, friends that need to be met.

In the moment of all that chaos, what feels like real life is often the result of the drama weaved by our imagination. This harried schedule gives us a sense of control. It makes us feel important. It gives us a sense of purpose. But it’s not real life. It’s far from it. It’s just the busyness that is taking you away from your life.

Take time this weekend to stop what you’re doing and remember why you’re doing it in the first place. It won’t be the end of the world if you don’t get the best gift. It won’t be the worst thing if you don’t spend a dime. You have the freedom to make your weekend. You have the option to be, so just breathe. If you let go of all that is unnecessary, you will realize that the only thing urgent in this moment is your breath.

If you are at the opposite end of the spectrum and mourn the loss of weekends filled to the brim with family and friends, remember that exciting moments are not a requirement of a life well lived. Like this post that my husband sent me, happiness and joy doesn’t rest in the adrenaline pumping moments. It often lies in the still ones-the droplets of water on leaves, the intoxicating perfume wafting in the breeze of a rose garden, and sitting where you are right now reading this.

Life needn’t be filled with excitement in order for it to be meaningful. It’s nice. But having it in your life won’t lead you on a path towards long-term happiness.

This weekend whether you’ve got crazy plans or no plans at all, try to remember that. It’s not the BIG plans that make you who you are. The shopping list, the errands, the important tasks that must be done this weekend are all giving you a false sense of identity and purpose. Know this: Your life is already meaningful just because you’re in it.