In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of our daily routines. We often find ourselves multitasking, scrolling through endless feeds, and planning for the future, all while neglecting the beauty and serenity that surrounds us in the present moment. But what if I told you that taking a moment to notice what is around us can lead to a sense of centeredness and peace within ourselves?
Why Is Noticing Important?
Consider these words from Anne Morrow Lindbergh:
Hurry is an upleasant thing in itself, but also very unpleasant for whoever is around it. Some people came into my room and rushed in and rushed out and even when they were there they were not there- they were in the moment ahead or the moment behind. Some people who came in just for a moment were all there, completely in that moment. Live from day to day. If you do so, you worry less and live more richly. If you let yourself be absorbed completely, if you surrender completely to the mouments as they pass, you live more richly those moments.
Are you really there? How often do you find yourself in a state of hurry? Do you find yourself focused on all you need to do or the events of the past? Being present can help to improve relationships, the ability to live our experiences as they are happening, and bring a sense of centeredness where we can notice what is around us. When was the last time you slowed down to take time to notice?
Starting Your Day
Begin by starting a practice before you leave the house or get to work. As you wake up, take a few minutes to simply observe your surroundings. Whether you're savoring a cup of coffee, listening to the birds chirping outside your window, or feeling the warmth of the sun on your face, allow yourself to be fully in the moment, not rushing ahead to the next thing. It's amazing how these little moments of awareness can set a positive tone for the rest of your day.
Taking Time-Outs To Notice
The gift of unrushed time is that we notice what is around us, but the mindset and practice of slowing down to notice, may not come naturally at first. The sense of hurry that we are used to may make you feel like there is no way to slow down. There is hope and it is never too late to start these practices in your life.
When children are small, there are times they need time-outs to reset their thinking. Yes, there are times these are used as consequences for poor actions, but they are also extremely beneficial to help shift focus to the positive. As adults, we can also benefit from time-outs and a shift in perspective, but we so rarely do this for ourselves.
You can initiate the practice of time-outs by taking a moment throughout the day to appreciate the small details that often go unnoticed. This could be the vibrant colors of a flower, the laughter of a child, or the comforting smell of a home-cooked meal. By focusing on these small joys, you can cultivate a sense of gratitude that will help you stay grounded and centered. This may not come naturally to start. Try setting a reminder on your phone or calendar to take a 5-minute pause to notice.
Reflect on what you see and what you are thankful for.
Finding Stillness in a Busy World
In a world filled with distractions and noise, finding centeredness through mindful observation is like finding a hidden oasis of peace within the chaos. By taking the time to notice the beauty and wonder that surrounds us, we can cultivate a sense of groundedness and tranquility that will enrich our lives in profound ways.
So, next time you're feeling overwhelmed or stressed, remember to pause, take a deep breath, and notice the world around you. You might be surprised by how a moment of mindful observation can fill your heart with gratitude and contentment.
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