I Wish You Extra Seconds
Winter Solstice is the shortest day of the year. As depressing as it sounds, this December day also marks the "turning of the Sun" and the days slowly get longer. With each passing 24 hours there will be a few extra seconds of daylight. For those of us who are solar powered this is an important date to reach.
It’s all about awareness and being present. Something I practice daily and believe everyone should. When you are present you are alive. Your thoughts are clear, your experiences slow down and you see the beauty in your surroundings. For example, the other day I stepped outside to have a conversation with a dear friend, and noticed a tiny bird’s nest in a barren tree. It was so small and camouflaged. I looked up in awe and started snapping photos with my phone. As my boss was walking by, he jokingly said, “Hey-stop taking selfies!” We laughed at that idea and I showed him the nest. He then said, “I would never have seen that!"
Life is a series of lessons that we learn from, or we repeat until we do. By slowing down, being present and grounded, we open ourselves to new experiences and learning.
How can you see the extra seconds of daylight?
- Learn something new: Something that is so far outside your daily routine and comfort zone … Take a painting class. Throw clay on the pottery wheel. Learn a new language. Start playing board games with friends. Read non-fiction if you are a fiction lover. Write an actual letter to a friend. Thank your 8th grade teacher who taught you how to diagram a sentence properly.
- Practice Gratitude:. Yes, wake up each morning and be thankful. For what you ask? Family, friends, co-workers, pets, heat on a cold day, whiskers on kittens and warm woolen mittens. Start with the obvious and add the simple. Remember to thank those you interact with: the cashier, taxi driver, receptionist, surgeon, daycare worker, postman, bus driver, teacher, pharmacist, policeman, fireman, delivery person, a colleague, a boss.
- Take inventory of your health. Make your well-being a priority: If you’re overdue, get a medical check-up. Exercise not only your body, but your mind and spirit too. Walk, run, play tennis, take up yoga, golf, whatever you enjoy doing - just move!
- Make a list of dreams and put foundations underneath them: The only way to reach a dream is by having specific goals. Break them down into small attainable steps. Enjoy the journey as well as the destination. Stay filled with wonder.
- Be gentle with yourself: Treat yourself with the kindness you give your spouse/partner, kids, and pets.
- Smile even when you don’t feel like it: Your smile lights up a room and is contagious. Watch your mood improve with each grin.
- Call your recruiter back! Just wanted to see if you’re still reading... My number is 203-439-7838
As 2016 ends and 2017 approaches, I wish you wonder, joy, success, light, laughter, love-and the ability to see and appreciate the extra seconds in each day.