We are increasingly feeling the effects of our technology augmented fast paced lifestyles. Anxiety and mental health problems are on the rise and all this despite the so called ‘progress’ we are making. We seem to be in such a rush that perhaps it is time to slow down.
There are many economic, societal and technological forces at work in all our lives and if we are not careful we can end up in a situation where the tail is wagging the dog.
The tail that wags the dog
The constant barrage of emails, phone calls and a growing to-do list can make it seem like we are always one step behind. It can seem like there are not enough hours in the day to meet the various demands placed on us. Wait, but what’s it all for?
A pertinent question one might say, but we might never get to the bottom of it if don’t ever take a moment to consider it!
Slow down
Wherever you are in your life, taking a moment to slow things down can be tremendously powerful. This is particularly true if you feel like you are constantly in “doing” mode – ticking of your to-do list and always fighting fires. We can get so caught-up in the doing that we forget why we are doing what we are doing.
We can forget to look for real meaning
and inspiration in our lives.
Slowing down is about becoming aware of the pace, pressures and joys in your life. It is about noticing what is going on for you and how you feel about it. It is about becoming more aware of your reality, so that you can focus on the things that really matter to you.
Doing this might not naturally sit within your busy schedule. If so, all the more reason to do it. Setting aside some time everyday to “formally” reflect is a useful starting point. It could even be as short as 10 minutes. But, put it in your diary!
A few questions to consider
What do I spend my time doing?
How do I feel about what I do?
What things really matter to me? Why does it matter?
Who are the people that matter in my life? Am I giving them enough time?
What would I really love to do?
What could I change in my life to have more time to do the things that I love?
How content am I with my life?
What resources are available to me to support me do more of what matters to me?
What might first seem quite alien could overtime become integrated in to your everyday way of being. A way of being that allows you to slow down from time-to-time and (re)focus on what is important to you.
Final thoughts
It is too easy for us to get stuck in doing mode in our busy urban lives. We can end up moving from one day to the next without actually being wholeheartedly engaged in life. So, wherever you are and wherever you want to be, take a moment to slow down and take a step back. It’s worth it.
Find out more about Harsha’s work
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