Why Rushing Through Life Get's You Nowhere

4 Ways to Help You Slow Down and Enjoy What Life Has to Offer

I lived most of my life in a rush.

When I was a single woman, I was rushing to find a man and made all the wrong decisions in the process.

I had a fairly good job but did not truly love it, moving from role to role.

And one more morning I had a wake-up call.

A Close Call

I was trying to get to work on time, which usually meant I was running late. I was hurrying to fix my hair, eat a slice of toast, and catch the local bus to the train station. I thought, instead of walking to the stoplight, I made a decision to jaywalk across a busy road to catch the bus. Why was I so impatient at that moment? I was always trying to be perfect and get everything done in record time. But what was the point of rushing if I wasn't truly living and enjoying my life in the process?

As I hopped onto the bus, the driver looked at me and asked, "Really? How many lives do you have?" I responded with a chuckle, "I have 2 lives left, I think." It wasn't until I sat down in my seat that I realized how close I came to possibly losing my life without even living in it.

And, as years passed, I still found myself in a “state of rush”. Today, married with kids, the thing I longed for many years, did not humble me or slow me down. In fact, I felt more hurried in my life.

I was constantly neglecting my own needs and desires. I was always on the go and never stopped to smell the roses. I rushed through my days without taking a moment to appreciate the little things. I rushed through my thoughts, needs, actions, and decisions, and as a result, I made poor choices that I regretted later.

I would constantly feel drained and exhausted because I was moving too fast. I never took the time to prioritize my own needs and desires, which resulted in me living a life that wasn't fulfilling.

The Truth Call

The truth is, rushing through life didn't get me anywhere, any faster. Sure, I may have accomplished a lot, and the jury is still out on that, but at what cost? I missed out on so many precious moments with my loved ones, never really found my dream job – if that really exists, and I never really took the time to enjoy the simple things in life.

In the fast-paced world we live in, it's all too easy for women to get caught up in the whirlwind of responsibilities, expectations, and societal pressures. We push ourselves to the limit, constantly striving for perfection, all while neglecting our own emotional well-being. It's time to hit the brakes and recognize the importance of slowing down before we crash emotionally. Embracing a slower pace, carving out moments of rest and rejuvenation, and prioritizing self-care are essential to living life.

Slow and Steady

Start with my S.L.O.W. approach to help you make a conscious effort to ease up on yourself, and slow down. Life is a slow and steady journey. It's a journey that requires some planning but also the willingness to let go of the plan and take the path that life presents.

The S.L.O.W. approach is a set of common practices that can help you cultivate greater peace, clarity, and joy in your life. With some simple tips and strategies, you can learn how to yield and live in the moment, even during your busy schedule.

1. Space to breathe, emotionally.

Take a deep breath and pause for a moment. Acknowledge that you are rushing and remind yourself that it's okay to slow down and take your time. Make sure to schedule some downtime each day to do something that you enjoy

2. Let go of distractions.

It's easy to get distracted by technology or social media, but they can pull you out of the present moment. Try to disconnect from technology and focus on the people and things around you.

3. Offer Appreciation and Gratitude

When you appreciate things in life, you naturally slow down. Take a moment to reflect on the things you appreciate and are grateful for each day. This helps slow you down and focus on the present moment .

4. Wake Up Calmly

Start your day with a calming morning routine. This allows you to set the tone for your day ahead. If you start your morning with a serene spirit, you will carry that feeling throughout your day. Consider meditating, journaling, or doing some gentle stretches.

These practices can help you cultivate greater peace, clarity, and joy in your life. We can't escape life stressors, and it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life and lose sight of the present moment. But with some simple tips and strategies, you can learn how to slow down and live in the moment, even during your busy schedule.