Big Picture: Never-Ending To-Dos
Ever feel like there’s never time to do what you love? Always stuck in a never-ending cycle of “ought to” and “have to”? Work, kids, and studies—it’s easy to get caught up in responsibilities and forget to live in the moment. Today, I’ll share 3 lessons I’m too scared to learn. You might be too.
Why Should You Care?
Life’s overflowing with must-dos and should-dos but is short on can’t-wait-to-dos. You keep postponing happiness to some distant future—when the kids are grown, when the loan’s paid off, when you finally land that dream job. Dr. Laurie Santos wisely advised, “Focusing on the present moment can boost our happiness more than we realize.” We can both say, “duh,” but do we focus on the moment or just keep taking the punishment?
A Personal Confession
I’m a poster boy for personal development! With more than 20 years at it, it’s safe to say that I’ve read all the books from the greats or listened to their talks. When John Maxwell came to SA, his core message was, “If something is important to you, do it every day, even on your birthday or Christmas.” The man has results to show for it, with over 120 books published. But trying to emulate him with a daily to-do list is exhausting. Don’t we need time to simply relax and enjoy life?
Lessons I’m Too Scared to Learn
a) Worrying About the Future Is Pointless.
I constantly worry that good times will end and I’ll retire into poverty. If you’re like me, maybe it’s time we realize that enjoying today is equally important.
b) It’s OK to Have a Day with No To-Dos.
I feel guilty when there is nothing on my to-do list, even on a Sunday. But in the grand scheme of things, most tasks end up being pointless or fail anyway. What if I spend one day per week playing my guitar on the beachfront or lost on Spotify creating perfect playlists?
c) There Is No Harm in Being Below Average and Doing Nothing About It.
We are drilled to believe we are lame if we are okay being mediocre. The truth is, world-class performers spend years perfecting their skills. You and I are juggling many things. It’s okay to celebrate just being on top of your inbox or a week of leaving your teenager at school without fighting.
Bottom Line
Life is lived one day at a time. Are you driving yourself crazy trying to be outstanding while preparing for an unknown future? Take a step back, and remember you can enjoy today. It is a gift.
Quote:
Focusing on the present moment can boost our happiness more than we realize– Dr. Laurie Santos