One day, I accidentally spilled something over twice. It was a busy day, and at first, it bothered me. I was already in a hurry and now had to find extra time to clean up the things. However, as this was not common at all, curiosity arose inside me. Why did something like that happen twice in a row?
As I moved quickly to the next activity, at the same time analyzing the situation, I realized why these things had happened. I was not present and paying enough attention to these activities. My focus was on the future and the plans ahead. I also realized that I was waiting for a calmer moment. A few busy days were ahead, and then the day would come when I would have some time off again. I continued being curious about the situation. Why were these days filled with busy activities when I was already waiting for a calmer moment? Maybe because I had chosen them? Then why not be present and enjoy them?
Yes, I had chosen all these activities for my life, and I wanted to do them! This questioning had brought me to an important realization. I immediately drew my attention back to the present moment. Although I kept moving at the same pace, I was present at the same time. I was also able to enjoy this busy moment. I had chosen the activities that required me to move fast because I wanted to do them. And being genuinely present with myself and these moments, I felt how those busy times also became more prosperous and peaceful. I even didn’t feel so much in a hurry anymore.
Questions to ask yourself when in a hurry
After that day and realizations, I tend to notice faster when I am in haste again or wait for time to pass and a relaxing day to arrive. In these moments, I ask myself:
- Is my focus on the present moment?
- Am I doing activities I want to do right now?
- Have I chosen these activities for myself?
- If I don’t want them anymore, how can I change my life and choose differently?
Taking responsibility like that has given me more power in my life. I feel more in charge of creating and directing my experiences. It is possible to change our minds and re-select. Spilling things came to teach me being more present in the current moment and that I have the power of choice for my life.
I will end my story with a quote from valued Finnish writer and psychotherapist Tommy Hellsten, “The process is more important than the end result. When you understand that the process is most important, you will notice that you are present. There is no hurry anymore. Where would you hurry anymore if you were already where you wanted to go?”
Dear reader, how often do you find yourself in a hurry? Are you focused and present when you’re in a hurry? Or are you waiting for this moment to pass? What should change so that you could be more in the present, more in the now?