Getting Lost in the Moment

Today, too many of us spend our time in regimented schedules, never allowing deviation from the must dos. Our lives have become so filled with work, daily chores, and activities for our children, and we feel compelled to complete everything; even when we reach the point of total chaos and exhaustion.

We need to get better at letting go of the normal everyday responsibilities and set an example for our children as to what a healthy lifestyle can be. If all they see is a rigid routine without any spontaneity, then they will believe that this is how life should be. This also teaches them that they must be on the run every waking moment; never being able to accept that every hour of the day does not have to be filled with some activity.

Before we can change our children's perception and expectations of what life should be, we need to change our own. This is certainly not an easy thing to do after so many years of running on the same treadmill. How do we retrain our minds so we can allow ourselves a bit of spontaneity?

A good way to start is to get lost in the moment; to allow ourselves to do something fun, or nothing at all. What do you enjoy that you have not allowed yourself to do? If you have no hobbies, then perhaps trying something new is a great place to start. How many times have we told ourselves that someday we will try this or that? 

Watch an old romantic movie and have a good cry or laugh at a great comedy. Perhaps you can get lost in a great adventure and imagine you are there; far from the daily routine you have left behind. Work in the garden, read a book, go for a walk or a swim in the lake, or play a game with your children. Show them that there is more to life than work and technology.

Over the years we have allowed more and more to run our lives, instead of us directing the path it should take. Life can be difficult enough without putting undue pressure on ourselves. There are so many ways to live a good balanced life, and the first step is to get lost in the moment to see where it will lead us. Most likely we will find a better version not only for us, but for our families.