Enjoying the Journey: The Reality of Time
May 14th, 2008
WORD COUNT: 558 Brief … Yet Powerful Words
TIME to GROW: * About 2 MINUTES *
Perception creates reality and this includes our relationship with time.
If you feel stressed and adhere to the adage that “there are never enough hours in the day” or if you’re on the other extreme and believe “there’s all the time in the world”, I invite you to explore how your perception of time is influencing the quality of your life.
When we believe in a scarcity of time, we feel stressed and push ourselves to work faster and try harder. Did you say relax? Who has the time?
So a concept of time as a scarce resource, impacts our ability to appreciate the moment. Our life becomes a giant TO DO list and we miss the point, which is to enjoy the journey.
Imagine an hourglass with a limited amount of sand. You’re standing at the top trying to complete your “task” before the last grain slips into the bottom chamber. You’re racing against time. How does that feel?
Now, imagine an hourglass with an infinite supply of sand. There’s always more and it never runs out. You’re moving about in the bottom chamber knowing that you have an unlimited supply of time. How do you feel now?
The second scenario may feel better temporarily, but it’s missing an important aspect in the equation of time on earth.
Infinite time may seem to be a better option on the surface. However if there’s no boundary, we can meander from one idea to the next, not really accomplishing anything and a sense of accomplishment is an essential ingredient of a fulfilling life.
With an infinite supply of time, there’s no need for urgency or making choices, and this option may not be a very practical way to operate, when we’re living in a world where “time is money”. Here’s something to consider – if we place no value on time, do we devalue our life on earth?
Both visions are extremes in the continuum of time management. These extremes are also where many people unconsciously choose to play.
Operating in “the scarcity perception of time” creates a lot of unnecessary stress and an “all work and no play” lifestyle. It’s not a lot of fun and we’re definitely not enjoying the journey. But option two completely misses the point of the human experience.
The gift of time is that it encourages you to make conscious choices about how you choose to spend it. That is a true gift because, with the need to choose, comes clarity about what is really important to you. Time helps us determine our values which in turn is how we make conscious decisions and create the
masterpiece which is our life.
The beauty of time is that it helps us feel the preciousness of each moment.
It’s only when we stay focused on the scarcity or the endless supply extremes of time, that we feel the negative consequences of an unhealthy relationship.
Life is a tapestry of meaningful experiences only when we are truly able to appreciate the moment. Time gives us that ability and the middle way helps us live with a balanced concept of time.
What do you want to experience today, tomorrow or next year?
What would happen if you let the answers guide you as you decide how to invest your time?
Your friend and partner in daily discovery,
Copyright© Laura Cardone 2008. All Rights Reserved. This is a Daily Discovery Series edition. http://www.profitswithpurpose.com is for enlightened business owners and professionals who are passionate about creating a successful business, AND a fulfilling and balanced life.
