Why Too Much Time Is Still Not Enough And What I’ve Learned From It

Well, I received an unexpected gift with the global shutdown from the virus and its impact has been a surprise to say the least. I wasn’t expecting it nor seeking it. In true form, it came to me because I needed it and was ready for it.

I’ve often said, “If I had more time I would…”, paired with a long list of possibilities for me of what I’d do with more time, if I only had it. Have you ever said this? Even the uber successful and productive people I know say this because if they had more time, they’d be able to do and accomplish even more. Is that even possible?

I’d say, “If I had more time I’d read more, exercise more, cook healthier meals, learn a new language, a new instrument, try a new hobby, learn a new skill. I’d make more phone calls to connect with friends and family, write a card or send a thoughtful note.”

Fast forward to present day with no distractions and nothing but time. I thought I’d finally be able to work and make giant strides offering new perspective to support people on their journey. I was free from the countless traps of obligations. New ideas, new dreams, new goals were waiting to get my full attention. I was going to make it happen…it would happen…it didn’t happen. To be fair, the stay-at-home order doesn’t provide a quiet, undisturbed environment. Between spouse, kids, news updates and a variety of frequent interruptions, there really isn’t a steady flow of time to maintain focus and host lady creativity.

What did happen was clarity came to me in the quiet moments that surrounded staying at home. That quiet break from distractions served as a reflective space gently requesting my attention and I was drawn in to discover a new possibility.

I saw clearly that the goals I failed to initiate and blamed on lack of time, in-actuality, were not realized with having more time. Nope. With more time on my hands I still wasn’t pursuing them. So I asked myself, what’s the problem? I know I’m capable of reaching my goals and being productive, so what’s keeping me from working on these things?

The answer was that I’d gotten distracted by some worthy goals that I thought I “should” be doing, not “need” to be doing. Big difference!

It brought me back to what I’d learned about successful goal setting.  Knowing my values and understanding my responsibilities are what sets my priorities so I can stay true to be the person I want to be. I remembered that I diligently spend time and energy on what’s most important and necessary for my life to flourish now. My long list of great hopes and aspirations are truly important and beneficial, but will be reached along my life journey, when the time is right. This happens one day at a time. I know this and still it’s easy to forget in practice.

I’m grateful for the gift of clarity and as a result I stopped judging myself for goals that aren’t yet a priority. I gave myself a gentle pat on the back for doing my best to live in the present moment and engaging with what helps my life thrive today. Life only happens in the present moment and in these moments we shape our future, one choice at a time.

Keep it Simple,
Just Teri

Advertisement