This isn’t about completely removing all distractions—they have their place and time.

Dear Cindy,

It’s time to say hello to the here and now. I’m writing this as a reminder of how easily our attention can be hijacked by the busy world around us. Your focus and attention are expensive—don’t underestimate them; cherish them. They're like currency, and too often, we spend them without thought, chasing that hit of dopamine to feel good, only to end up feeling drained, lost, and unfocused. It's akin to getting tipsy on distractions like YouTube, music, and podcasts, all while neglecting the real essence of the moment we're in.

Eww, Cindy, let's hit pause. Catch that drunken thought. Just stop. Ask yourself what it is. Close your eyes. Take a deep, slow breath. Let’s truly listen and feel what’s around us right now. This moment offers more richness than we might think.

Here are a few clear promises we can make to ourselves:

🫁
Mindful Breathing: Dedicate time each day to meditate, go for a walk, or spend time alone in a sauna or hot bath—as I learned in Japan.
👩‍💻
Tech-Free Time: Make it a daily ritual to step away from all gadgets and screens. Let’s use this time to reconnect with our surroundings directly, not through a screen. Consider using an app blocker if necessary.
🗒️
Gratitude Journaling: Each evening, take a moment to reflect and jot down three things we were grateful for that day.

This isn’t about completely removing all distractions—they have their place and time. It’s about finding a balance and creating space to appreciate the now as much as we prepare for the future.

Life is unfolding right here, right now.

Let's not miss living it by being too caught up in what’s next.

C

Tagged in:

Lettertomyself