So much happens to us in the span of one day. It is hard to imagine all the different events that impact us throughout the entirety of our life.
Yet, we rarely take time to process these events – whether it be the daily events or the big life-changing events.
Why is that?
We keep telling ourselves we simply do not have time the time to reflect.
Then, our thoughts end up keeping us awake when we try to sleep, or they bother us when we are trying to focus. We might have more time, if we take the time to think, to process, to understand. Life requires reflection.
Taking the time to think can take form in a variety of ways for each person. It may require five minutes a day or maybe an hour once a week. Regardless, we should all take a much needed "Me, Myself and I" break.
What should I be reflecting on during this break?
Many of us simply float through life never really fully understanding who we are. Take this time to reflect on how different moments in our lives have shaped us. If you reflect daily, you can begin to see how each day is transforming us. Answer the big questions – who am I? Reflection is crucial to finding the answers we have been missing in our busy lives.
Think about the things that have been distracting you lately. What is upsetting you? Why is that upsetting you? This can further answer the who am I question. The things we keep coming back to in our mind are the things that are impacting us the most in life. Work through these problems so you can begin to move on and find peace throughout your days.
How can just sitting there thinking solve any of my problems?
Just thinking will not solve your problems. But, it will give you a better idea of how your actions are affecting your life. By thinking about your actions, and the outcomes of your actions, you can begin to understand the implications of your everyday choices. If you do not like the current outcomes, this is the time to think about what you can be doing differently.
How do I fit this time into my schedule?
Find the times during your day when your mind is blank. If you exercise with headphones in, try doing so without headphones. The other day, I went for a run without headphones and instead took that time to reflect.
Sort everything out before you go to bed. If you consistently find yourself losing sleep over your thoughts, take some time before bed to sort out your thoughts. Try journaling before bed to put all the thoughts on paper and reflect rather than allowing the thoughts to keep you up at night.
Shut yourself off from the world for five minutes. Lock yourself in your bedroom to reflect. Sit outside to think with the peaceful sounds of nature.
Reflect in the shower. This time does not have to be crammed into your schedule. The time might already be there, but you are not using it.
Just take the time to think.
