If you’ve heard it said once, you’ve heard it said a thousand times: life’s a journey.
But is it? Where are you actually trying to go?
We all know where it ends: glass funeral urns and solemn faces at funeral ceremonies. So is it a journey that you want to complete?
If you’re building a business, it can certainly feel like an uphill struggle. You’ve got to get to the top of that mountain and plant your flag to say that you’ve done it. But should you view it as a journey? Is that sensible?
Always Waiting For The Future
When you’re stuck in traffic how do you feel? If you’re like most people, the primary feeling is frustration, which can lead to rage if you’re not careful. All you want to do is get to your destination, but other people are in the way.
The same feeling occurs when you’re queueing at the supermarket or waiting in line at the DVLA. You just want to get to the end and for it to be over.
But do you want that from life? Are you just striving for it to end? Or are you looking for something along the way?
The Approach Of Wellness
People who achieve genuine and lasting wellness tend to view life differently. They don’t count down the minutes and hours to reach their destination. They don’t constantly look forward to what they want to achieve in their businesses or careers. Instead, they look for ways to enjoy the process. They see their work like dance. The purpose isn’t to finish the activity; it’s to enjoy yourself along the way.
This approach to life is fundamentally what wellness is about. It’s not about “getting there” or finding some magical pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. Instead, it’s finding joy in whatever you’re doing, regardless of the chaos around you.
A Thought Experiment
Imagine what it would be like if you could spend an entire day in the present. That’s 24 hours without thinking about the past or future at all. What would your experience be like?
Well, think about it: you’d have to completely let go of everything and just accept what was happening to you. You wouldn’t be thinking about your dental appointment tomorrow or how you’re going to bring in enough customers to support your business. Instead, you’d just be focusing on the task in front of you.
If you could actually exist in this state, you’d discover something interesting: you would feel a lot of joy. Without extraneous thoughts about the past and future, the mind has nothing to do. It goes quiet. And out of the void comes this sense of peace and joy. You’re riding along with things as they are. You’re accepting reality: going with the flow.
Conclusion
If you can get into this esteemed state, you’ll notice that your work actually improves. Your relationships get better, and you’re able to get more done. You’re not wasting energy on stuff thoughts that are bringing you down and don’t serve you. It changes everything.
