Rush, rush, rush is how most people go through their day. People walk by others preoccupied with their personal dialogue set on repeat in their minds. The endless checklist of what must get done by 6pm. The tug of where to put their energies since they are being pulled in so many directions. Then the guilt that creeps in because they know something will have to fall by the wayside. When did this become the way to go through life? I don’t call this living I believe it is survival mode. Most people are so distracted that they are spending the present moment worrying about the next 5 minutes, hour, or day. They are so focused on what’s coming up that they don’t notice what is happening around them now. They don’t stop to smell the coffee let alone the roses.

Is there any wonder why people are so stressed these days? Through the ages the demands were different but still present so why are people so unable to cope now?  Maybe they need to flex their “No” muscle and practice using the simple word without worrying about how it will be perceived. Maybe they need to practice being in the moment. They need to take a moment to greet the person in the elevator, smile and look the barista in the eyes as they are handed their coffee, or simply look around on the walk to work from the parking lot. Start to see what and whom is around. Notice that there is a whole world happening and wonders all around that deserve being seen. Notice when someone at work or home is just not themselves. Notice the apple trees in full bloom that would have otherwise been missed. Begin to notice the beauty all around.

Try to slow things down. Start with one little change this week. Perhaps waking up 30 minutes earlier to be able to have some “you time”. Disconnect from social media for a set amount of time, turn off the cell phone, or the TV. Create a bedtime ritual that is calming so that you are ready for sleep rather than tossing and turning. Ask for a helping hand or accept an offer of help. Divide household chores up among family members, leaving everyone more time to spend together doing something fun. Look at your daily routines I am certain everybody can find some sweet pockets of time that can become mini recharging sessions. Get off the hampster wheel because the more you think about it the more you realize that life is meant to be enjoyed and not just rushed through.

You’re only here for a short visit.

Don’t hurry, don’t worry.

And be sure to smell the flowers along the way.

                                                                                                       By Walter Hagen