Time on our side

It’s the wind blowing free
It’s the end of the slope
It’s a beam, it’s a void
It’s a hunch, it’s a hope

And the river bank talks
Of the waters of March
It’s the end of the strain
The Joy in your heart

An abundance of joy

On one hand, it’s not yet March, but in Monchique you can already feel spring with babbling brooks, vibrant green fields dotted with clover, and golden morning moments. Then there’s sunny terrace weather and cozy evenings by the fire. It feels as though autumn and spring collide with a brilliant display of leaves and flowers in ’50 shades’ of color. And there’s so much to enjoy; light falling through trees, flowers, good conversations, nature, and urban beauty. This world offers an abundance of joy for those who take the time.

Deadlines and Targets

However, many of us struggle with deadlines and targets that must be met or surpassed to secure a (rich) future. Consequently, we become so focused on what needs to be done that we miss the boat when it comes to inspiring and meaningful matters. By this, I mean the things that recharge us rather than deplete our energy.

Precious time

After all, how much pleasure can you derive from a morning walk? Or simply gazing out the window while indulging in your first cup of coffee? Or perhaps, through a spontaneous conversation, you suddenly feel more connected to someone? Because it touches you. If you pay attention, there are countless things that cost nothing but are immensely valuable. Often, it is what replenishes you. For that, you need time and must consciously carve out moments. Yet, nowadays the focus is on the future, making it easy to let the precious present slip by.

Priority

Do you recognize this? While you’re in an engaging conversation, you still glance at your watch halfway through. Because there’s more to do. Duty calls. What do you do in this time crunch? When I feel trapped by the idea of time scarcity, I try to breathe deeper to calm down so I can focus better. Moreover, I schedule short breaks throughout my day to sit and reflect on what truly matters. I know plenty of people who, despite a busy life and a demanding job, take the time for rest: How do they do it? They give ‘prio-time’ to creating balance in their schedules. For instance, through yoga, meditation, walking, and quality time with loved ones in between tasks.

Timing

That’s why a sense of timing is so important to save ourselves from unnecessary stress. For example, in the Netherlands, I started a coaching and training business and wanted to kick off immediately. However, things progressed too slowly for my expectations. Yet, the moment I decided to let go of my intense efforts and focus only on things I enjoyed, everything started to flow. The timeframe I had planned to get started turned out to be necessary for recovering from a hernia operation. So, Timing is about letting time work for you instead of against you.

When in doubt, don’t rush

Recently, I had a coaching session where the coachee was in great doubt about which choice to make. “I’m going crazy from all this weighing and measuring; I might as well just make a decision!” Detached from chaos, he pressured himself to decide as quickly as possible. Yet, allowing ‘time’ to reflect on the matter from various angles, to discuss it, and to feel it provided a pause and space. When in doubt, don’t rush. Time will tell what the right choice is for a specific situation.

Joy in your heart

Since we returned from a rejuvenating holiday where time seemed to stand still while flying by, it feels as though all six senses have been awakened. As a result, I learn to perceive my surroundings in detail: I appreciate Monchique and our region more than before. I must say, this is easier outside the season, in a country that operates com calma, in an area as quiet as the ocean it overlooks. Nonetheless, during the most stressful period last summer, I also experienced peace and joy by staying present; ‘Time will tell.’ Taking time on our side. It’s the end of the strain. The Joy in your heart!

How do you deal with time? Do you allow yourself the time to enjoy? Do you live primarily in the future, the past, or right now?