T for Time (A-Z Happiness Guide)

Like a delicate aged cheese, meat, or wine, we all need time to develop into our fullest potentials.  Personal growth and development is a process that simply does not happen overnight and cannot be rushed.  Although we must work diligently on the task of crafting ourselves into being the finest people we can be, there is only so much we can do until we must let go and let time take its course.  There is a slogan in Alcoholics Anonymous that “Time takes time” (this is a great slogan that we can all benefit from without needing to be in Alcoholics Anonymous).  This slogan couldn’t be more true.  If a person buys a twenty-year bond they must wait twenty years until it reaches full maturity.  Sometimes there is just no substitute for patience.

Frequently we need to be proactive in setting aside the time from our often overly taxed schedules in order to cultivate the relationships we wish to have.  Regardless of whether those relationships are with others, ourselves, the outside world, or of a spiritual nature, we need to set aside hallowed occasions designated for the cultivation of those relationships and endeavors.  Someone who wishes to attain a specialty in brain surgery must designate four years of undergraduate study, plus four years of medical school, plus numerous years of residency and specialist training before being considered proficient in the field.  In such a case, it is clear that expertise is not acquired overnight, but only with a great deal of time and patience.  So it is with all endeavors, whether they be material, emotional, mental, or spiritual.  We must set aside moments for those people and pursuits that are important to us and in which we wish to succeed.

In both my personal and professional life, I find that many people suffer from being too busy.  I encourage them to slow down to the speed of life and take things easy.  Perhaps turning off the television, computer, or iPhone and going for a walk or looking out the window and taking in the scenery while breathing in life.  If we are too busy for life, life will pass us by.  Rarely, if ever, has someone lying on their deathbed bemoaned not having spent enough time in the office.  People most frequently bemoan not having given more attention to family, friends, and other meaningful (albeit not financially profitable) activities.

Giving yourself the gift of time will add happiness to your life by helping you to recognize and sanctify those areas of your life that are most dear, precious, and meaningful to you.

Ways to give yourself the gift of time:

Practice saying the slogan, “This too shall pass.”

Schedule occasions for personal development.

Schedule occasions for family and friends.

Schedule occasions designated for spiritual pursuits.

Take a break when you need a break.

Slow down.

Learn to breathe slowly and deeply.

Stretch.

Enjoy the moment.

Practice saying this positive affirmation, “I give my self permission to slow down, take things easy, and enjoy the moment.”

Step away from your computer or television, turn off your cell phone, and go for a walk.