Embrace the Grace: Going Slow and Being Present
Do you find yourself in a constant state of hurry? Not too long ago, my daily routine was packed to the brim with activities, hardly leaving any room for spontaneity. Here’s a glimpse into the schedule I had for about a year, before I realized it simply wasn’t working for me.
My mornings were a whirlwind of chaos. I’d start with a brisk walk. As soon as I returned home, I’d quickly do my makeup, pick out an outfit, and pack my work bag. I’d scramble around the house frantically, as if I was in a game show, racing against the clock. My last stop before leaving would be the fridge, where I’d grab the breakfast I’d prepped the night before. I’d carry everything in one trip, hop in the car, turn on some tunes, and eat as I drove to work.
Some days, I’d swing by the grocery store, drop everything off at home, and head to the gym. Once I returned, I’d get straight to cooking. Afterward, I’d clean up. You get the idea. Before I knew it my day would be gone, and I’d get in bed, only to repeat the process again and again.
While this might sound like a perfectly productive routine, for me, it created a constant feeling of being in a rush. I always felt like I was working, whether physically or mentally. Even my hobbies began to feel like tasks because I wasn’t giving them the time and attention they deserved. This constant feeling of hurry was a result of my relentless pursuit of productivity, ultimately inhibiting my ability to be present. Always scattering my attention across multiple tasks was robbing me of the pleasure of savoring my thoughts and experiences.
Just yesterday, I went to a café to work. I entered with an open heart and a curious mind. While I was quite productive, I also allowed myself time for conversation. By not being on my phone, I gave the appearance of openness, which made way for the lovely chat to follow. After enjoying my meal, I had a lovely conversation with Kelly, a 79-year-old woman who recently moved to Laguna Beach from San Francisco. Our exchange was anything but shallow. I heard about her younger years, failed relationships, and her lessons learned. I walked away with a warm heart and much to reflect on. It’s moments like this that remind me how deeply we need human connection. Had I been too focused on my work, I’m sure our conversation would have ended after a simple greeting.
This is just one example of how attention and presence can enhance our lives on both an emotional and intellectual level. Today, I encourage you to take a step back and ask yourself a few simple questions:
Am I making time to be still?
When was the last time I had a spontaneous encounter?
What is one thing I can do today to slow down?
Start small! Consider walking a bit more slowly while running errands and take a moment to look up. Ask the cashier how their day is going, and really listen to their response. Grace others with your smile more often. Drive the speed limit, rather than rushing as if you’re in Fast and Furious. Call a friend and try to be fully present, without multitasking. Pretend as if you have all the time in the world.
I encourage you to pursue moments of stillness, knowing that this is often the time for epiphanies to surface. A woman who embraces her feminine energy does not feel the need to constantly push forward. She understands that life’s beauty often lies in the pauses. In slowing down, she allows space for her creativity, intuition, and wisdom to abound. It’s in these moments she is most able to hear her inner voice and make decisions that truly align with her values. When she is sure of her values, she radiates a quiet confidence and peace. There is a certain glow that she exudes when she’s fully present—a quality that makes her especially pleasant to be around. Her gift of listening and engaging is priceless to those around her. Integrating the habit of slowing down and being mindful of the world around you will only enrich your life in the long term.
For the next week, I challenge you to pick one activity each day where you intentionally slow down. Whether it is taking the time to make yourself a nice breakfast and savoring each bite, slowly browsing through the shelves of a bookstore, or pausing for conversation with a stranger, try to be intentional in your engagements whenever possible!
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