Slow Down and Enjoy Life!
Most people would agree that modern life can get insanely busy- if we allow it. Are we too busy though? Are we comfortable without anything to distract us? Are we content when not accomplishing something or other, when not moving ahead in our goals or helping others? Do we have to busy do have a sense of worth? Do we need recognition? Do we feel lonely when we are by ourselves? Not only must we reflect on questions such as these, but we should decide to behave differently.
I am sure we all have the time to set aside five minutes of thinking time a day. Some might just use it to think while others will choose to meditate or pray. We should also engage in a solitary activity from time to time or take up a hobby that we can quietly enjoy ourselves in what spare time we can manage. Instead of reading only work-related journals, we should read outside our area of expertise as well as just for pleasure.
A large number of us are driven by success and competition and are performance-oriented . We must acknowledge that one day we will be retired. Do we have an interest to keep us occupied when our career is over? Are we prepared for eventual retirement, or the possibility of a physical disability which will prevent us from pursuing our current interets? Can we be happy when we are not busy? We should slow down and savor life, not rush our way through it and miss so much else that it has to offer. We should slow down and be more cognisant of our interactions with others and enjoy each moment of our day.
Our full presence is not possible if we are constantly rushing around, revising our lists or mentally reviewing the meetings we have just left. To be completely present is to give our full attention to the task at hand, or to whoever we are talking to. It means maintaining an acceptable level of eye contact, verbally showing understanding of wht is being said, and asking relevant open-ended questions. Applied to our family life, the effort made to slow down and be more present will bring irreplaceable rewards. The worth and dignity of every family member is recognized and understood, and deeper personal relationships result. The next time your children ask for attention, be reminded that nothing is more important, and nothing sends them a message of your love more than willingly and gladly giving them your time. Its a gift of self.
Do not miss the truly important parts of your life by being too preoccupied and busy to give of yourself. Slow down! Resolve today to:
- Look for the beauty in the world and people around you
- Start reading books for pleasure
- Spend some quiet time alone and reflect on yourself and your loved ones
- Listen better
- Spend more time visiting your family and/or friends