Slow Down

Just do one thing.  Do one thing that slows you down.  I am not asking you to move to a cabin or become a monk or a hermit. 

This week I was awakened to the reality of how short life is and how fast it goes.  Life goes by to fast to not slow down and enjoy the little moments.  The faster we go the faster life slips by. 

Below is a list of ideas to slow down a moment of life.  Pick one or come up with your own.  If you come with your own share it in the comments. 

1. Drive in the right lane on the freeway.  Decide before you go that you are going to stay in the right lane.  Enjoy the ride.  Don't worry about the few extra minutes it will take you to get to your destination.

2. Cook a meal at home.  I am not talking about Hungry Man instant meals or Hamburger Helper.  Pull out one of Grandma's recipes that takes you back in time.  While you are at it, switch to cast iron cookware.  Turn off the technology and eat the meal around the table with people you care about. 

3. When something good happens in life, do not post it on social media or immediately text your friend or loved one.  Wait and share it with that person face to face. 

4. Order your Starbucks "Extra Hot" so you have to take your time and enjoy your drink.  Better yet, learn how to make your favorite beverage at home.  Grind your own coffee bean, buy a french press or espresso machine. 

5. Pick the longest line at the grocery store.  While you are at it, do something nice for the clerk when you get up there.  Be extra polite, smile, buy them a candy bar, or help them with bagging if a bagger is not available. 

6. Set cruise control to the speed limit.  Trust me, that extra couple of MPH will not make that big of a difference on your arrival time.  The first time you see a traffic officer clocking cars and you realize you do need to panic will bring you a satisfying sense of peace. 

7. Leave your cell phone at home for the day.  I know it is crazy, but for centuries, we all made it home at night without a phone with us. 

8. Use a map next time you do not know where you are going.  Stop and ask for directions if you get lost. 

9. Take a bath, read a book or exercise.  Do something just for you. We are often rushing around and forget to take time to care for ourselves. 

10. Write a letter to someone.  Yes, I mean on paper, in an envelope, and with a stamp.  How much is a stamp these days anyway?  It will be good for you and the person who receives it will appreciate it too. 

Again, just pick one thing.  Slow down just a little.  We are all busy.  Don't decide to wake up at the end of your life and wish you would have enjoyed more of the small moments. 



Thank you for reading and thank you for sharing.