Time, slow down!
- Lisa Ellisen
- Aug 22
- 2 min read
“Time, slow down!”
I shout from the rooftops, but time doesn’t listen. So maybe it’s time I take matters into my own hands. I found some good tips on slowing down time on “tinybuddha.com/blog.” I added a few of my own thoughts in parentheses.
She (Lori Deschene) writes:
Eat slowly (this will be hard!! but I will give it a try.)
Do nothing for fifteen minutes after waking up (so hard to imagine but sounds luxurious)
Stare at a photo online instead of reading an article (instead of filling your mind with more info, enjoy something beautiful or interesting. I am an info person, this will also be challening)
Choose an activity you usually multi-task and do only that (this is a lesson in mindfulness. Try laundry, dishes or even DRIVING. I often multi task by listening to podcasts while I walk or do housework. I’m going to try to just focus on the thing I’m doing, not distracting myself from it.)
Stare at your turned off TV for 10 minutes before turning it on (this is an opportunity to be with yourself and your feelings before zoning out in front of the tube. Another strange one, but I see the benefit!)
Block a half hour of unplanned time in your planner (Does this idea make you panic? Are you already thinking of how you will fill it? I am. Can you try and be spontaneous and unplanned for this window of time? Maybe even dance it out in your kitchen.)
Write Parkinson’s Law somewhere you can see it often: "Work expands to fill the time available for its completion.” (are you filling your time because society values busyness? Could you complete things sooner and have time to also focus on other things? I like the feeling of “busy” until I don’t. I suppose if I focus on the task and not multi task I may get more done with time to spare.)
Notice the sights when you drive (driving angry doesn’t get you there any faster. Slow down and enjoy the sights.)
Metaphorically toss your phone in the ocean for a half hour every day (take time to disconnect and be unreachable, it’s worth it for the peace of mind sometimes. I don’t like being unreachable as a mom, but I think it would be good for my kids to have to wait for a response from me sometimes.)
Say no (saying “no” can give you some me time, I think I’ll try it!)
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