Prioritize the Important Things in Life

Many of us lead busy lives – it’s an often heard lament – “ I don’t know where the time goes – I’m so busy!.”  And yet if we are so preoccupied with the doing side of ourselves, we may miss the beauty of the present moment.  Having worked with many persons who are facing a terminal diagnosis, I’ve learned from them the importance of slowing down and finding meaning in the everyday simple things that may be missed when we are rushing around.  Facing our mortality can be a gift if we take the time to prioritize the important things in life.  Often, this involves those persons in our lives that mean the most.  One of my clients who was nearing end of life told me, “It’s all about relationship.”  We may fall into the trap of thinking that our happiness comes from purchasing a new car, buying a bigger home or getting that promotion at work.  While these things may bring a sense of satisfaction and feeling of success, they don’t necessarily give us a lasting sense of peace or even fulfillment.  When we look back on a life well lived most of us will remember the ones that we loved, learned from and grew with.  It may not be about our possessions, but the memories that we make along the way with those that we love and cherish.  We don’t have to wait to slow down and get in touch with our being side – after all, we are human beings, not human doings.

Take time to think about what your priorities are and where you are putting your energy.  Find out what is truly important to you and what gives your life meaning and purpose and then focus on that.

Michael Singer writes:

“Don’t be afraid of death. Let it free you. Let it encourage you to experience life
fully. But remember, it’s not your life. You should be experiencing the life that’s
happening to you, not the one you wish was happening. Don’t waste a moment
of life trying to make other things happen, appreciate the moments you are
given.”

(The Untethered Soul)